Geneva, Switzerland – A high-level delegation from Somalia, led by Commissioner Mahamuud Moallim of the Somali Disaster Management Agency (SoDMA), is making waves at the International Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction. The event, which includes the first session of the Arab States Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction, is taking place today in Geneva, Switzerland, bringing together global leaders to address disaster risk mitigation.

The Somali delegation seized the opportunity to engage with an impressive lineup of international officials, including:

• The Deputy President of the World Bank and the Head of the Infrastructure and Development Office
• Director of the Fund for Responding to Loss and Damage (FRLD)
• Head of the Anticipation Hub
• Senior officials from CADRI, UNDP, IOM, and FAO
• Director of the CIMA Foundation
• Head of the World Meteorological Organization (WMO)
• Head of the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR)

These meetings were far from ceremonial—they sparked productive discussions focused on strengthening collaboration between Somalia and these global entities. The talks centered on how Somalia can take an active role in international initiatives to reduce disaster risks, a pressing need for a nation frequently challenged by natural calamities.

The international officials were quick to commend the proactive contributions of the Government of Somalia, particularly through SoDMA. They praised Somalia’s efforts to bolster its capacity to manage and mitigate the risks of recurring disasters, signaling the country’s growing influence in global disaster management conversations.

Commissioner Mahamuud Moallim emphasized Somalia’s dedication to action, highlighting the urgency of implementing the National Strategy for Disaster Risk Reduction. His call to prioritize this strategy resonated with the officials, who expressed their commitment to supporting SoDMA in this vital mission. This mutual pledge underscores a shared vision of enhancing resilience against disasters, blending local leadership with global expertise.

This conference marks a hopeful milestone for Somalia, showcasing its determination to turn challenges into opportunities through collaboration and innovation. With the backing of these international partners, Somalia is poised to make meaningful strides in safeguarding its communities from future disasters.