SoDMA, Red Cross Launch AHEAD Initiative to Strengthen Early Disaster Action

Mogadishu, (SONNA) — The Deputy Commissioner of the Somali Disaster Management Agency (SoDMA), Dr. Ahmed Abdi Adan, and the Country Director of the Somali Red Crescent Society (SRCS), Filip Lozinski, have jointly launched the Anticipatory Humanitarian Early Action for Displacement (AHEAD) Initiative, aimed at strengthening early forecasting and anticipatory action against disaster risks that could trigger forced displacement.

The initiative focuses on identifying and understanding emerging disaster risks and their potential impacts at an early stage, enabling government institutions and humanitarian partners to take timely measures in preparedness, prevention and risk reduction before crises escalate.

The launch, led by SoDMA’s Director of Disaster Risk Management, Khadri, brought together representatives from the Federal Government, the United Nations, and international and local organisations.

Participants emphasised the need for stronger coordination and data-sharing, as well as the use of reliable forecasts and early-warning information to strengthen disaster risk management, humanitarian response and community resilience.

Dr. Ahmed Abdi Adan highlighted the importance of AHEAD in reducing loss of life, property damage and humanitarian impacts, stressing that forecast-based early action can help protect vulnerable communities and reduce the risks associated with disasters and forced displacement.