MOGADISHU, SOMALIA — In a celebratory evening that underscores its commitment to developing its human capital, the Somali Disaster Management Agency (SoDMA) hosted a farewell dinner for employees heading to the People’s Republic of China to participate in a specialized training program. This group, which includes 20 SoDMA staff members along with other employees from the Ministry of Interior, marks the second cohort sent by the agency as part of its ongoing program to raise the country’s readiness to confront disasters. This follows the successful participation of the first group in a similar training in late 2024.

SoDMA’s efforts in investing in its human resources are considered a cornerstone in building a strong and sustainable national disaster management system. The agency believes that the knowledge and expertise gained from international training programs are essential to empowering employees to become leaders of change in the field of emergency management.

In a speech at the event, SoDMA Commissioner, Mr. Mohamud Moallim Abdulle, emphasized the importance of this step, stating: “Sending this second batch of our employees represents a vital strategic step within our plans to raise the country’s readiness to confront disasters. We believe that investing in knowledge and expertise is the foundation for building a strong and sustainable national disaster management system.” He added that the employees are representing Somalia well and must make the most of everything they will learn.

For his part, Deputy Commissioner, Dr. Ahmed Abdi Aden, spoke about SODMA’s commitment to developing its employees’ capabilities, noting that they represent the agency’s most valuable asset. He said: “This trip is not just a training; it is a direct investment in the future of Somalia. Today, you are ambassadors for the agency and the Somali people, and we are counting on you to apply this new knowledge on the ground to become leaders of change in the field of emergency and disaster management.”

The training program, titled “Disaster Prevention and Mitigation for Somalia,” is sponsored by the Ministry of Commerce of the People’s Republic of China and organized by the Chinese Red Cross National Training Center, and will last for 24 days in Beijing.