Baku, SONNA — At the COP29 World Leaders Climate Action Summit, Somalia’s Deputy Prime Minister Salah Jama highlighted the urgent need for increased climate finance directed toward countries most vulnerable to the effects of climate change. Speaking to global leaders, Jama stated that Somalia, despite being on the frontline of the climate crisis, receives a disproportionately low share of climate funding, impacting the nation’s ability to respond effectively to environmental challenges.
The Deputy Prime Minister stressed that Somalia is continuously affected by extreme weather events, including prolonged droughts and unpredictable flooding, which devastate communities and disrupt local economies. “Somalia receives a disproportionately low share of climate finance,” Jama stated, noting the challenges this creates in breaking the persistent cycle of crisis and climate shocks.
Jama called on the international community to prioritize resilience and adaptive solutions, underscoring the importance of targeted investment in sustainable infrastructure and climate adaptation strategies. He further added that without enhanced support, Somalia’s efforts to mitigate and adapt to the consequences of climate change remain constrained.
The Deputy Prime Minister’s remarks come amid growing calls from leaders of developing nations at COP29, who are urging wealthier countries to fulfill their financial commitments to support nations facing the brunt of climate change impacts.