Somali Disaster Management Agency and Qatar Delve into New Opportunities

Somali Disaster Management Agency and Qatar Delve into New Opportunities

In a recent meeting between the Director of the Somali Disaster Management Agency (SoDMA), Mahmoud Macallim Abdulle, and the Ambassador of the State of Qatar to Somalia, Abdalla Binu Saalim Al-nuceymi, the potential for further collaboration between the two nations was discussed. The meeting, which also included officials from the Qatar Fund and Qatar Charity, explored ways in which Qatar could assist SoDMA in delivering aid to newly liberated regions of Galmudug and Hirshabelle, recently reclaimed from Al-Shabaab militants. In addition, the possibility of Qatar’s support in the preparation and response to anticipated El-Nino floods in the coming months was also discussed.

Following the meeting, Abdulle and Al-nuceymi visited the Center for Emergency Relief Operations of SoDMA, where they inaugurated the newly equipped lower offices of the center, a contribution made possible by Qatar Charity. The center plays a crucial role in coordinating and managing humanitarian assistance in Somalia, particularly during emergencies and disasters. Expressing gratitude for Qatar’s contribution, Abdulle voiced his hope that the new offices would enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of SoDMA’s operations.

(Read Also: 16 Wounded in Somalia Truck Bombing Flown to Mogadishu for Treatment)

A Symbol of Fraternal Ties

In a move symbolizing the strong bilateral ties between the two nations, the leaders also laid the foundation for a mosque to be built within the Center for Emergency Relief Operations of SoDMA. This mosque is intended to serve as a place of worship and spiritual guidance for the staff and beneficiaries of SoDMA. Al-nuceymi expressed Qatar’s pride in supporting Somalia’s development and stability and viewed the mosque as a symbol of the fraternal ties between the two nations. He also commended SoDMA for its vital role in preserving lives and alleviating suffering in Somalia.

On a related note, the United States, United Kingdom, and Qatar have recently launched a $10.5 million drought assistance and resilience program through the Building Resilient Communities in Somalia (BRCiS) consortium. This trilateral partnership builds upon the famine prevention and resilience investments made by USAID, UKAID, and QFFD from 2021 to 2022. The program aims to sustain life-saving service delivery while accelerating recovery efforts over the next six months.

(Read Also: Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud Condemns Attacks in Beledweyn and Stands with Victims’ Families)

Alleviating Somalia’s Humanitarian Crisis

Severe drought compounded by conflict in Somalia has left 6.6 million people severely food insecure. Since January 2022, more than 3 million people have been displaced, and mortality rates have surpassed those in 2017, with an estimated 43,000 deaths, half of which were among children under the age of five. Without continued support, more than half a million children under the age of five are at risk of severe malnourishment and death this year.

Qatar’s collaboration with Somalia illustrates the importance of international cooperation in addressing humanitarian crises and fostering resilience in vulnerable communities. Through these efforts, Qatar is making significant strides in strengthening its ties with Somalia and contributing to the nation’s development and stability.

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