In Mogadishu, Somalia, the country's Conference on Humanitarian Response (CHF 2026) took place on September 25, 2026. The meeting focused on preparing for the anticipated impacts of Super El Niño in 2026. Attendees included federal government ministers, the head of the Somali Disaster Management Agency (SoDMA), officials from regional governments, humanitarian organizations, international partners, and civil society members. Discussions centered on strengthening preparedness and response plans for potential floods and humanitarian crises.
The conference aimed to enhance collaboration and coordination among stakeholders to mitigate the effects of El Niño. Participants emphasized the importance of early warning systems and data sharing with vulnerable communities, particularly those in remote areas. They also stressed the need for a unified approach to disaster management, involving the federal government, regional governments, and humanitarian agencies.
The meeting comes as Somalia prepares for potential severe weather events associated with El Niño. The country's disaster management agency, SoDMA, plays a crucial role in coordinating response efforts. SoDMA's head, Maxamuud Macallin Cabdulle, highlighted the need for collective action and comprehensive preparedness to address the anticipated challenges.
Minister of Interior, Federal Affairs, and Reconciliation, Cali Yuusuf Cali (Xoosh), closed the conference with a call to action. He urged all stakeholders to work closely with SoDMA in preparedness and response efforts. The minister emphasized SoDMA's role as the national agency responsible for leading and coordinating disaster management activities.
The conference built on previous efforts to strengthen Somalia's disaster management capabilities. Participants reviewed and discussed strategies for enhancing early warning systems, emergency response, and humanitarian assistance. They also explored ways to improve coordination and collaboration among government agencies, humanitarian organizations, and other stakeholders.
Somalia has historically been vulnerable to climate-related disasters, including droughts and floods. The country's experience with El Niño events has underscored the importance of preparedness and effective response. The CHF 2026 conference aimed to leverage these lessons to improve the country's resilience and response to future disasters.
Key outcomes from the conference include a renewed commitment to collaboration and coordination among stakeholders. Participants agreed on the need for a comprehensive and unified approach to disaster management. The meeting concluded with a call for sustained efforts to enhance Somalia's preparedness and response capabilities in the face of anticipated El Niño impacts.
Key points
- Somalia convenes emergency meeting to address potential impacts of Super El Niño in 2026
- Conference focuses on strengthening preparedness and response plans for potential floods and humanitarian crises
- Stakeholders emphasize need for collaboration and coordination to mitigate effects of El Niño
