Somalia Wins Historic Climate Funding to Foster Sustainable Solutions

MOGADISHU, Somalia – A historic moment unfolded at the Green Climate Fund (GCF) Board meeting from October 21 to 24, 2024, in Songdo, Incheon, South Korea, where a new climate adaptation project was unveiled, signaling a pivotal advancement in agricultural resilience for Somalia. Dubbed "Climate Resilient Agriculture in Somalia (Ugbaad)," this initiative heralds a new era for agricultural resilience in the country. It has secured an impressive funding allocation of USD 94,901,497, making it the highest-funded project of the session.

The GCF has pledged USD 79,707,268 to this crucial initiative, with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) contributing an additional USD 15.19 million from the USAID-funded TRANSFORM project.

This strategic collaboration highlights a global commitment to combating climate change and positions Somalia as a leader in sustainable agricultural practices, offering hope for a brighter future for its farmers and communities.

The "Climate Resilient Agriculture in Somalia (Ugbaad)" project is poised to revolutionize farming in the country through innovative upgrades in water management, the introduction of climate-adaptive crops, and improvements to local agricultural infrastructure. The project's rapid approval—achieved in just five months—reflects the effective advocacy efforts of Khadija Mohamed Al-Makhzoumi, Somalia's Minister of Environment and Climate Change.

In recognition of her substantial contributions, the GCF Board invited Minister Al-Makhzoumi to discuss the approved project, with a funding announcement ahead of COP29, where climate finance will be a key topic. This highlights Somalia's effective advocacy for essential climate initiatives.

“Winning this historic funding from the GCF is a major triumph for climate finance in Somalia and a reflection of our united efforts. It signals a vital shift towards sustainable agriculture and enhanced resilience to climate challenges,” Minister Al-Makhzoumi remarked.

The endorsement of this project not only marks a pivotal moment in Somalia’s commitment to sustainable agricultural practices but also reinforces the global dedication to aiding regions vulnerable to the impacts of climate change.

GAROWE ONLINE