Baku, Azerbaijan – The third session of the annual COP29 international conference commenced with a focus on the Early Warning for All (EW4ALL) initiative, a crucial effort spearheaded by the United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres. This initiative aims to ensure that every person worldwide receives disaster warnings by 2027. Among the distinguished nations participating is Somalia, which has been selected to lead the implementation of this vital project.
The session was chaired by Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and saw the attendance of leading organizations involved in the EW4ALL initiative, including the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR), World Meteorological Organization (WMO), International Telecommunication Union (ITU), and International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC).
Commissioner of the Disaster Management Authority (SoDMA), Mr. Mohamud Ma’allin Abdulle, represented Somalia at the meeting. He delivered a comprehensive report on the implementation progress of the EW4ALL initiative in Somalia. Commissioner Abdulle highlighted the significant strides made by SoDMA since its official appointment by the Government of the Federal Republic of Somalia in October 2023 to lead all activities related to the EW4ALL initiative.
In his address, Commissioner Abdulle emphasized the urgency of taking proactive measures to prevent the anticipated impacts of natural disasters, particularly the predicted droughts in East Africa due to La Niña. He underscored the importance of strengthening the emergency warning system and ensuring that warning messages effectively reach all individuals in the affected areas. “Now is the time to act and implement robust systems to mitigate the severe consequences of climate-related disasters,” stated Commissioner Abdulle.
The collaborative efforts between SoDMA and leading international organizations reflect a shared commitment to enhancing disaster preparedness and resilience. The Early Warning for All initiative aims to equip communities with the tools and knowledge needed to respond to disasters effectively, reducing vulnerability and saving lives.
Somalia’s active participation in COP29 and its leadership role in the EW4ALL initiative underscore the country’s dedication to addressing climate challenges and building a sustainable future. The support from international partners, coupled with the expertise of organizations like UNDRR, WMO, ITU, and IFRC, is critical in achieving the ambitious goals of the initiative.
As the COP29 conference continues, the focus remains on forging strong partnerships and securing commitments that will enable countries like Somalia to build resilience against climate impacts. The dedication and proactive approach of leaders like Commissioner Mohamud Ma’allin Abdulle serve as an inspiration for the global community in the collective fight against climate change.
