UN
A round-up of activities of the UN system in Somalia in September 2024
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Food Security | IOM supports food security with modern irrigation and seed distribution In Barwaqo, a village in Baidoa, traditional farming methods have become ineffective due to unpredictable weather, wrong seeds, and water shortages, affecting food production. IOM-supported Barwaqo Pilot Irrigation Project tackles these issues by introducing modern irrigation and distributing seeds to strengthen local farmers' capacity. This project is being carried out via the Saameynta Programme, meaning “impact” in Somali, a collaboration among IOM, UN-Habitat, and UNDP, funded by the Somalia Joint Fund with support from Switzerland, the Netherlands, and Norway. The project, promoting smart, sustainable farming practices, has transformed nine hectares of arid land into 57 well-irrigated plots, each 35 square meters, equipped with an innovative drip system that ensures reliable water access. |
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Photo Exhibition | UNICEF and Somali Arts Foundation photo exhibition about children living in an IDP camp in Baidoa A photo exhibition, “Dhaliy Baydhaby: Through Their Eyes – Lived Experiences of Somali Children,” was held at the National Museum of Somalia. Organized by UNICEF and the Somali Arts Foundation, it offered a glimpse into the lives of children from underserved IDP camps in Baidoa. The exhibition, featuring the work of renowned Somali photographer Said Fadhaye, captured moments of resilience, hope, and the daily challenges the children face. Through the lens of his camera, the children shared their stories with the world. The “Dhaliy Baydhaby” exhibition has left a lasting impact on all who attended, serving as a powerful reminder of the resilience of Somali children. A key highlight was a mural painted by the children. The Save Somali Marginalized and Minorities Organization facilitated children’s participation at the event. |
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Youth | UNFPA announces youth centres in Barawe and Dhusamareb In Kismayo, Jubaland, UNFPA, in collaboration with the Ministry of Health and with support from USAID Somalia, successfully concluded a workshop aimed at improving emergency obstetric and newborn care. In Somalia, maternal and neonatal mortality rates remain high due to limited access to quality healthcare. The workshop equipped healthcare providers with the skills and knowledge to save the lives of mothers and newborns during childbirth, thus contributing to a healthier future for communities across Somalia. The training reflected UNFPA’s commitment to improving maternal health outcomes and strengthening the healthcare system for long-term development and well-being. |
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Drought Response | FAO calls for immediate measures to combat anticipated drought impacts On 24 September 2024, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) Somalia, in partnership with the Somalia Disaster Management Agency (SoDMA) and UNICEF Somalia, launched the "La Niña: Preparedness, Mitigation, and Response Plan." The initiative prepares communities to anticipate and address the expected impacts of the upcoming La Niña season. With a 70% likelihood of La Niña conditions, as predicted by FAO's Somalia Water and Land Information Management (SWALIM), the plan focuses on early warning systems, anticipatory action, and government-led coordination. These efforts aim to protect vulnerable livelihoods and reduce the need for large-scale humanitarian assistance. With a funding requirement of $30 million, the initiative seeks to bolster drought preparedness and resilience across Somalia. |
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Security | UNSOS briefs security partners on Somali Security Forces Trust Fund UNSOS convened in Mogadishu a joint meeting for Somalia’s security partners to update on the significant progress made in the administration of the Somali Security Forces (SSF) Trust Fund. Somalia’s National Security Advisor, Hussein Sheikh Ali, emphasized the critical importance of UNSOS’ logistical support in boosting SSF operations. Notable contributions from various nations, including the UK and US, were acknowledged for their roles in enhancing the operational effectiveness of Somalia’s security forces. UN Security Council encourages Member States to support the Somali Security Forces via the Trust Fund to counter terrorism and enhance peace and security in Somalia and the region. |
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Humanitarian | OCHA allocates $3 million for the conflict-affected people in Jubaland and Galmudug The Acting Emergency Relief Coordinator and Head of OCHA, Joyce Msuya, has allocated $3 million from the Central Emergency Response Fund for an urgent response to displacement in Somalia. The funding will support the UN and partners to address food, protection, and shelter needs for some 50,000 displaced people in conflict-affected areas of Galmudug and Jubaland States. So far in 2024, an estimated 150,000 people have been displaced by renewed clan conflict and ongoing military operations in Somalia. |
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Security and Climate Change | UNDP supports a high-level conference on security and climate change At a high-level conference in Mogadishu, hosted by the Government of Somalia and supported by UNDP, experts discussed how climate change exacerbates vulnerabilities and threatens stability in Somalia’s security sector. The discussions focused on how climate-related displacement and food insecurity make populations more susceptible to extremist groups, which exploit these hardships to recruit members. |
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Economic Development | UNIDO empowers Bosaso entrepreneurs UNIDO continued its commitment to fostering entrepreneurship in Somalia by empowering local businesses in Bosaso. Through a series of training sessions, business counseling, and access to credit, entrepreneurs were provided the necessary tools to grow their businesses. A prime example is Suudi Fishing Company, which benefited from training and counseling and later received a credit of $30,000. This support enabled the company to purchase cooling equipment, enhancing its capacity to store and distribute fresh seafood, thus contributing to the local economy and employment. |
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Mine Action | UNMAS enhances the Somali National Army's capacity to mitigate explosive threats UNMAS has been actively supporting the Somali National Army (SNA) in strengthening its ability to mitigate the threat of explosive ordnance and improvised explosive devices (IEDs), contributing to the broader goal of peace and security in Somalia. On 19 September, UNMAS launched a month-long 'train-the-trainer’ course designed to further enhance the SNA’s capacity to counter explosive hazards, including IEDs. This Somali-led initiative will train 14 SNA personnel in explosive ordnance disposal and route search techniques, building on their operational experience and prior training delivered by UNMAS. The trainees will also be able to effectively instruct their unit. |
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Climate Action | UN calls for urgent climate change adaptation The UN called for urgent climate change adaptation in Somalia, recognised as one of the most vulnerable countries to climate disruptions. During a UN-supported climate symposium organised by SIMAD University’s Institute of Climate and Environment in Mogadishu, officials emphasised the need to put human rights at the centre of discussions and work on the climate agenda. The UN supports the Somali government’s commitment to key actions, including the establishment of a national climate resilience plan and a climate financing framework to ensure that strategies translate into tangible improvements. |
