MOGADISHU, Somalia — Somali Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre on Saturday chaired the first meeting of the National Disaster Risk Management Committee, where officials reviewed the country’s drought situation and preparations for possible severe flooding expected with the onset of the Deyr rains.
The meeting in Mogadishu focused on Somalia’s preparedness for natural disasters and emergency response, with officials warning of the potential impact of heavy seasonal rains in several parts of the country.
Barre said the committee should step up public awareness campaigns on the risks posed by flooding, particularly for communities living near rivers and waterways and in low-lying areas vulnerable to inundation.
He also called for stronger emergency response measures and better coordination of humanitarian assistance and community mobilisation, according to a statement issued after the meeting.
The committee presented reports on preparations to respond to disasters and emergencies, as well as plans to educate communities living along rivers and in low-lying areas about the risks associated with seasonal flooding.
Somalia is highly vulnerable to climate-related disasters, including droughts and floods, which have repeatedly displaced communities, damaged infrastructure and worsened food insecurity.
The government has increasingly sought to strengthen early warning systems and disaster preparedness as the country faces recurring climate shocks.
The prime minister directed the committee to focus on coordinating relief operations and mobilising support from donors and Somali businesses to help people affected by drought and recurring floods.
He also urged greater coordination among government institutions and humanitarian actors to ensure that assistance reaches communities most at risk.
The meeting came as authorities prepare for the upcoming Deyr rainy season, traditionally one of Somalia’s two main rainy periods.
Officials are particularly concerned about communities living along the country’s major rivers and in areas with limited drainage, where heavy rainfall can quickly lead to flooding.
The government did not provide details on the number of people currently affected by drought or specify which regions are expected to face the greatest flood risks.
The committee’s first meeting marks an effort by the federal government to coordinate preparations for potential disasters and improve its response to emergencies before they escalate.
Authorities have called on communities in vulnerable areas to remain alert and follow guidance issued by disaster management officials as the rainy season approaches.
