MOGADISHU, Somalia – The National Disaster Management Agency (SODMA) held a one-day meeting on Saturday, October 21, 2023, with international organizations and non-governmental agencies. The focus was to discuss the potential impact of the El Niño phenomenon on Somalia.

According to News Releases by Somali National News Agency, Chaired by Dr. Ahmed Abdi Adan, Deputy Director of SODMA, the meeting aimed to coordinate a unified response to the El Niño situation, which is causing an unusually high amount of rainfall this season. There are concerns that this could lead to floods and the displacement of populations.

Dr. Adan stressed that SODMA is closely monitoring weather patterns and has prepared contingency plans to address risks associated with flooding. The agency is also collaborating with international and local partners to mobilize resources and enhance the ability of local communities and authorities to handle any forthcoming emergencies.

He encouraged the public to heed the warnings and advice issued by SODMA and other agencies, emphasizing the importance of taking precautionary measures. Dr. Adan also called on media and civil society organizations to play a role in educating the public about the potential consequences of the El Niño phenomenon.

The meeting underscored the vulnerability of Somalia to climate-related disasters such as droughts and floods, which have a significant impact on food security, livelihoods, health, and overall stability.