Somalia Launches Climate Resilience Project  for Vulnerable Communities

GOOBJOOG NEWS | MOGADISHU: The Federal Government of Somalia has launched a new climate resilience initiative aimed at supporting farmers and pastoralists, as the country continues to grapple with recurring droughts and extreme weather.

The programme, known as Activating Climate Resilient Agricultural Livelihoods in Somalia (ACALS), will provide climate-adapted technologies and livelihood support to communities in Hirshabelle and Puntland.

Backed by the African Development Bank and implemented by the World Food Programme and UNOPS, the project is expected to benefit around 30,000 people, with a focus on women and youth.

Government officials said the initiative will help restore agricultural systems, develop climate-resilient infrastructure and strengthen early warning and anticipatory action to reduce the impact of climate shocks.

The launch comes as Somalia emerges from one of its worst drought cycles in decades, which left millions in need of humanitarian assistance and displaced large numbers of people. While seasonal rains have improved conditions in some areas, aid agencies warn that communities remain highly vulnerable to future shocks, including floods and erratic rainfall.

In recent months, the federal government and international partners have stepped up efforts to shift from emergency response to long-term resilience, investing in climate adaptation, food security and sustainable livelihoods.

The officials say the ACALS project is part of this broader strategy to reduce dependence on aid and help communities withstand future climate crises.