MOGADISHU, SOMALIA – The Commissioner of the Somali Disaster Management Agency (SoDMA), Mr. Mohamud Moallim Abdulle, has announced the appointment of Mr. Abdullahi Maxamud Dirie as the Director of the National Disaster Risk Management Fund. This strategic move is the culmination of the agency’s efforts to build an integrated national disaster response system and aligns with the requirements of Law No. 17. Specifically, Article 8 of the law establishes a financial framework to ensure a rapid response to national emergencies.

Mr. Dirie possesses over 15 years of experience and high qualifications that make him exceptionally suited for this vital role. He holds Level 1 and Level 2 degrees in Environmental Management and Public Health, and has a distinguished record in humanitarian work and good governance. His previous roles include:

* Director of the Food Security and Social Protection Department at the Agency.
* Director of the Disaster Resilience and Durable Solutions for IDPs Department at the Agency.
* Former Director of the Monitoring and Evaluation Department at the disbanded (or former) Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management of FGS.

In his new position, Mr. Dirie’s responsibilities include managing and organizing this fund in accordance with the highest standards of transparency and accountability. He will also oversee the development of coordination mechanisms with all relevant parties to ensure the fund is always ready to meet the needs of emergency response effectively and efficiently.

Concluding his statement, the Commissioner offered important guidance and recommendations to Mr. Dirie, emphasizing the necessity of dedication in his work, safeguarding public funds, and serving as a role model of integrity and responsibility. He also urged him to leverage his vast experience in service to the nation and its citizens, and to always prioritize the principle of “Humanity First” in all the tasks entrusted to him.

This new fund represents a fundamental pillar for enhancing national capacity to face crises. It encourages broad community participation by inviting businessmen and the public to contribute to a “financial box” that ensures continuous readiness for disaster response. The Commissioner emphasized that this fund aims to provide an immediate response to emergencies, embodying the agency’s vision to protect the Somali people from both natural and man-made disasters.

In parallel with these efforts, the agency underscores its leading role in directing humanitarian work in the country. This includes coordinating national and international efforts, channeling relief aid to the most affected areas, and developing proactive plans to reduce human and material losses. SoDMA is committed to achieving a comprehensive vision that combines rapid response with sustainable development, making it the driving force behind humanitarian efforts in Somalia.