Mogadishu, July 21, 2026 – The Somali Disaster Management Agency (SoDMA) today convened a meeting at its headquarters with the Association of Somali Universities (ASU), Somali universities, and research institutions to strengthen national collaboration in preparation for the anticipated impacts of Super El Niño 2026.

During the meeting, participants agreed that Somali universities should play a leading role in mobilizing financial support, humanitarian assistance, and volunteer coordination, including the engagement of students, faculty members, and experts. They also emphasized the universities’ role in disseminating early warning messages, raising public awareness, and supporting needs assessments and emergency response operations when required.

At the conclusion of the meeting, the participants agreed to develop a joint roadmap outlining responsibilities, implementation timelines, and mechanisms for collaboration. The roadmap will further strengthen research, innovation, capacity building, and community resilience to enhance Somalia’s preparedness for climate change-related hazards and disasters.