Mogadishu (AX) — In a remarkable step towards future-proofing its key agricultural sector, Somalia has announced a $79.7 million climate resilience project designed to ease the harsh impacts of climate change on its communities. This ambitious seven-year endeavor, aptly called Ugbaad, aims to breathe new life into the land by transforming degraded farms into productive spaces, securing precious water supplies, and enhancing the systems that deliver crucial climate data.
The name ‘Ugbaad’ resonates with hope—a Somali term meaning “fresh sprouting pasture.” It embodies the aspirations of a nation steadfastly working to reclaim its environment and secure food for an increasingly anxious populace. Spearheaded by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and funded by the Green Climate Fund (GCF), this project is part and parcel of Somalia’s urgent response to environmental degradation and the looming specter of widespread hunger.
Picture this: Somalia’s rolling plains, with agriculture as their lifeline, nurture nearly two-thirds of the population. It’s a picturesque landscape now marred by relentless climate shocks. Droughts stretch out agonizingly, while floods leave catastrophic marks, their fury felt by millions. It is a staggering reality that, according to the FAO, nearly a quarter of Somalia’s people face extreme hunger—a number that is both daunting and deeply unsettling.
Imagine communities that have thrived with their livestock for generations now witnessing up to 40% perished due to drought. Not to mention the floods, silent yet potent threats along the Jubba and Shabelle rivers, erasing villages and uprooting thousands. The truth is stark: without a countermeasure like Ugbaad, these communities face an uncertain tomorrow. Yet, here we find a beacon of hope.
A Plan Rooted in Action
The strategy of Ugbaad is detailed and ambitious:
- Restoration of more than 40,000 hectares of farmland using techniques that engage the communities themselves.
- Rehabilitation of 15 km of irrigation canals and 70 km of rural roads to create robust infrastructure resilient to climate changes.
- Enhancement of incomes by at least 15% for 15,000 individuals through adaptive and climate-smart agriculture value chains.
- Providing clean water access to 900,000 people while disseminating enhanced climate information to 950,000 others.
“In this era of escalating climate risk, Ugbaad will empower communities,” noted Henry Gonzalez, Chief Investment Officer at the Green Climate Fund. He emphasizes providing the necessary tools for survival—sustainable farming, resilient landscapes, and reliable water resources. Is there a greater testament to the power of foresight and resilience?
Building upon its work with the Green Climate Fund Readiness Programme, Somalia is well on its way to managing climate finance intelligently. Integrating with the National Transformation Plan, Ugbaad is also set to reinforce the structures of national research institutions, bolster farmers’ associations, and empower local governance. The vision? To secure a future where climate resilience isn’t a luxury but a norm.
Abebe Haile-Gabriel, FAO’s Assistant Director-General for Africa, describes Ugbaad as a catalyst for community empowerment in climate adaptation. He mentions, “We recognize the challenges on the ground, but we also see an opportunity to drive change from within.” It’s a sentiment that sparks both introspection and inspiration. After all, are we not all stewards of our shared earth?
Officially initiated in February, Ugbaad is now engaging local stakeholders in its consultation phase. An upcoming inception workshop in April promises to outline the final roadmap for bringing this ambitious plan to life.
Deputy Prime Minister Salah Jama hailed this initiative as pivotal: “We are embedding climate action within our National Transformation Plan. Through Ugbaad, we envision restored landscapes, improved livelihoods, and a future where Somalia need not fear the whims of climate chaos,” he declared with a hopeful gleam. A thought—could this be a turning point not just for Somalia, but as an example for global resilience initiatives?
Edited By Ali Musa
Axadle Times International–Monitoring
