JALALAQSI, HIRSHABELLE, SOMALIA — In a critical move to enhance humanitarian response in one of the most affected areas, the Somali Disaster Management Agency (SoDMA) launched a large-scale food project yesterday.

The Commissioner of the agency, Mr. Mohamud Moallim Abdulle, led a high-level delegation to the Jalalaqsi district to officially kick off the initiative. This vital project will provide food parcels to 5,705 families, equivalent to 34,230 individuals, across the districts of Jalalaqsi and Balcad. The Jalalaqsi district alone is set to receive 2,009 food parcels.

The delegation, which included officials from SoDMA and the Hirshabelle State Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management, received a warm welcome from the Jalalaqsi District Commissioner, Mr. Nur Mohamed Absuge (Nur Dheere), and other local leaders.

A National Commitment to Sustainable Recovery

In his speech at the project’s launch, the Commissioner of the agency Mr. Abdulle emphasized that this project is a clear manifestation of the federal government’s vision to build resilient communities and ensure a dignified, sustainable life for all citizens.

He noted that the initiative is a key part of a comprehensive national recovery plan aimed at strengthening food security and preparing for future crises.

Jalalaqsi Leadership Expresses Gratitude

Jalalaqsi District Commissioner Nur Mohamed Absuge expressed his deep gratitude for the humanitarian support. “We welcome everyone here in Jalalaqsi and appreciate any assistance provided to our people, regardless of its source or size. We believe that humanitarian work knows no bounds, and every helping hand is a blessed one,” he stated.

Community elders and local dignitaries also extended their sincere thanks for the aid, praising SoDMA’s effective role in reaching affected areas and assisting families during this critical time. They affirmed the importance of this support in alleviating their suffering.

Vital Support and Strategic Partnerships to Alleviate Hardship

The food aid distribution project, which will continue for three months, is a critical and decisive response to the urgent humanitarian situation caused by droughts and floods in the Hirshabelle State. This program is made possible by significant financial support from the African Development Bank (AfDB) through the African Risk Capacity Insurance Program.

This effective international partnership underscores the importance of global cooperation in strengthening Somalia’s resilience against future challenges. The support is expected to make a substantial contribution to alleviating immediate human suffering and enhancing the ability of local communities to recover and withstand crises.