Geneva, (SONNA) — The 8th session of the Global Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction, held in Geneva, Switzerland, has concluded after several days of high-level discussions focused on reducing the risks and impacts of disasters worldwide. Somalia was actively represented by the Chairman of the Somali Disaster Management Agency (SoDMA), Mr. Mahamuud Macallin Abdulle, who led a delegation that participated in key scientific dialogues throughout the forum.
A central theme of the conference was the importance of strengthening community resilience in both disaster preparedness and recovery. SoDMA contributed to several major sessions, including:
- Strengthening National Systems for Resilience:
Khadar Sheikh Mohamed Nur, Director of Disaster Risk Management at SoDMA, delivered a technical presentation on how governments can develop sustainable systems that enable communities to better withstand disasters and recover quickly from their effects. - Improving Early Warning Communication:
Ms. Fadumo Abdi Ali, Senior Advisor to SoDMA on disaster management, took part in a discussion on best practices for delivering timely and effective early warning messages to the public. - Gender Inclusion in Disaster Risk Reduction:
Halimo Yusuf Hassan, Head of SoDMA’s Gender Unit, emphasized the vital role of women in disaster risk reduction efforts, advocating for inclusive strategies that ensure all groups contribute to and benefit from national resilience planning.
The most prominent and dynamic session featured SoDMA Chairman Mr. Mahamuud Macallin Abdulle alongside Mr. Abdi Hakim Yusuf Eynte, Advisor to the Prime Minister of the Federal Government of Somalia on food security and climate change, and also advisor to SoDMA on disaster early warning systems.
Their joint discussion focused on the implementation of the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction in fragile and conflict-affected states. They underscored the challenges and opportunities in applying global strategies in countries facing conflict, insecurity, and socio-economic vulnerability.
The Somali delegation’s active engagement underscored the country’s growing commitment to disaster risk governance and international cooperation in building safer, more resilient communities.
