PHOTOS: Somali Red Crescent Trains Flood Response Teams Ahead of Expected El Niño Rains

GOOBJOOG NEWS|JUBA-SHABELLE BASINS: The Somali Red Crescent Society (SRCS) is training emergency response teams in flood-prone areas of Somalia as anticipated El Niño conditions raise the risk of flooding along the Juba and Shabelle rivers.

According to SRCS, 72 participants, including 60 local community volunteers, are undergoing training aimed at equipping them with essential skills to respond to flood emergencies.

The training, supported by the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), is being conducted in Bardere, Jowhar, Beletweyne and Kismayo, areas vulnerable to river flooding.

SRCS said the programme combines theoretical instruction with hands-on exercises to ensure response teams are prepared to act effectively if flooding occurs.

The organisation said the preparations are informed by previous flood emergencies, including in 2023, when its boat teams took part in rescue operations in areas inundated by floodwaters.

Flooding along the Juba and Shabelle rivers can displace communities, damage homes and farmland and disrupt access to essential services, particularly in low-lying areas.

SRCS said the latest training is intended to strengthen local preparedness and ensure trained volunteers and response teams are ready to assist communities should the anticipated floods materialise.