Somalia disaster agency chief visits Baidoa ahead of El Niño risks

BAIDOA, Somalia — Somalia’s disaster management chief Mahmoud Moallin Abdulle arrived in Baidoa on Sunday to strengthen preparations for potential humanitarian emergencies linked to heavy rains and flooding, officials said.

Abdulle, who heads the Somali Disaster Management Agency (SoDMA), led a delegation to the capital of South West state, where he was received by senior regional officials, including the minister responsible for humanitarian affairs and disaster management.

The visit is focused on improving preparedness and coordination between the federal disaster management agency and South West authorities ahead of the anticipated impact of a Super El Niño weather pattern.

Officials have warned that the weather phenomenon could bring unusually heavy rainfall, increasing the risk of flooding and other humanitarian emergencies in vulnerable areas.

During the visit, SoDMA officials are expected to engage with South West authorities on contingency planning and measures to strengthen the state’s capacity to respond to emergencies caused by severe weather.

The talks also aim to improve coordination between federal and regional institutions in responding to disasters, particularly in areas vulnerable to flooding and other effects of extreme rainfall.

Somalia has repeatedly faced climate-related emergencies in recent years, with droughts and floods placing additional pressure on communities already affected by conflict and displacement.

The country’s disaster response agencies have sought to improve early-warning systems and preparedness as climate variability increases the frequency and severity of extreme weather events.

Baidoa, a major humanitarian hub in southwestern Somalia, has hosted large numbers of displaced people and remains an important centre for humanitarian operations in the region.

The SoDMA delegation’s visit comes as authorities prepare for possible increased rainfall and flooding, with officials stressing the need for early planning and closer cooperation between government institutions.

Abdulle thanked South West state authorities for what he described as a warm welcome for him and his delegation, according to a statement issued following his arrival.

The discussions are expected to contribute to joint preparations aimed at reducing the potential humanitarian impact of severe weather and ensuring a faster response should flooding or other emergencies occur.