BELÉM, Brazil – The Ministry of Environment and Climate Change of the Federal Government of Somalia, led by H.E. Minister Bashir Mohamed Jama, held a series of strategic meetings today in Belém with Somali civil society leaders representing people with disabilities. These discussions, taking place on the sidelines of the COP30 Climate Change Conference, highlighted the government’s commitment to ensuring that climate action remains equitable and inclusive of all segments of society.
Minister Jama engaged with key advocates who are playing a pivotal role in shaping the global dialogue on climate justice. Among them was Ms. Fardowsa Mohamud Mohamed, a representative from the Somali Women Disability Empowerment organization. Ms. Fardowsa is a leading figure in the advocacy for the rights of women with disabilities, consistently pushing for their integration into climate resilience planning. During the meeting, she emphasized that the inclusion of people with special needs is not merely a social obligation but a prerequisite for building a future grounded in justice and sustainability.
The Minister also held a dedicated session with Mr. Abdirahman Mohamud Kulane, the founder of UDHAN and Director of the Somali Association of the Blind (SAP). Mr. Kulane is recognized for his vigorous campaigning for accessible climate solutions that serve the entire community. His leadership focuses on raising awareness about the specific vulnerabilities faced by the visually impaired in the wake of climate shocks and ensuring that adaptation strategies are accessible to all.
The Ministry of Environment expressed profound appreciation for the Somali delegation attending COP30, particularly commending the relentless efforts of those advocating for the inclusion of people with disabilities. The Ministry reaffirmed its stance that Somalia’s national climate strategies, as well as its contributions to global frameworks, must reflect the voices and needs of the country’s most vulnerable communities.
