The Commissioner of the Somali Disaster Management Agency (SoDMA), Mr. Mahmoud Moallim Abdulle, today opened a meeting of the Women’s Working Group on Humanitarian Affairs, emphasizing that this is a critical time for Somalia to prepare for the anticipated impacts of El Niño.

The meeting brought together government institutions, the United Nations, humanitarian organizations and partners, as well as organizations working to promote and protect women’s rights.

Commissioner Mahmoud Moallim Abdulle stressed that climate-related impacts disproportionately affect women, children, persons with disabilities, and internally displaced persons (IDPs). He therefore emphasized the importance of integrating gender considerations and community participation into preparedness efforts from the outset.

In conclusion, the Commissioner called for strengthened coordination, collaboration, and information-sharing among the Government, the United Nations, NGOs, and humanitarian partners, while enhancing the participation of women and vulnerable communities to ensure a coordinated and timely response and strengthen preparedness for the impacts of El Niño.