President Mohamud Calls for Global Backing to Reform Agriculture, Fight Hunger

GOOBJOOG NEWS | ADDIS ABABA: Federal Republic of Somalia President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has called for urgent international support to transform agriculture in fragile states, describing food systems reform as a matter of “survival, justice, and national sovereignty” during a high-level summit in Addis Ababa.

Addressing world leaders and global development officials, Mohamud said Somalia was undergoing a strategic shift to position agriculture as the foundation of its national recovery, peace building, and economic development.

“Agriculture is more than a sector for us, it is our lifeblood,” President Mohamud he said, citing its contribution of over 70% to Somalia’s GDP and its employment of nearly 80% of the population.

The Somali leader outlined sweeping reforms under the country’s National Transformation Plan (NTP) and newly launched Agricultural Transformation Strategy, which prioritize climate-resilient practices, private-sector growth, and rural development.

He emphasized that Somalia’s farmers, pastoralists, and fisherfolk had shown “extraordinary resilience” despite decades of conflict, poverty, and climate shocks.

President Mohamud stressed that transforming agriculture is no longer optional for Somalia, where over 4 million people face acute food insecurity.

“Every investment in rural livelihoods is an investment in lasting peace, inclusive growth, and national dignity,” he declared.

The president highlighted Somalia’s alignment with major global and continental frameworks, including the COP28 Declaration, the Great Green Wall Initiative, and regional trade blocs like the East African Community and AfCFTA.

He also pointed to Somalia’s re-entry into the global financial system following its completion of the HIPC debt relief process, saying it had opened doors for long-term investment.

Despite notable progress, Mohamud admitted Somalia continues to face “formidable challenges” and called for stronger international solidarity, equitable access to climate finance, and investment in innovations such as digital agriculture, climate adaptation, and cross-border trade corridors.

“Food security is peace building. Agricultural transformation is nation-building,” he said, urging global leaders to turn pledges into practical support for fragile states.