Mogadishu (Dawan Africa) – The Somali Disaster Management Agency (SoDMA) on Thursday opened a high-level conference in Mogadishu aimed at reshaping the country’s humanitarian partnerships, as aid agencies warn of a worsening crisis driven by funding shortfalls and prolonged drought.
The Re-Imagining Humanitarian Partnerships Conference brought together government officials, international organizations, financial institutions, religious leaders, and private sector representatives to chart a new course for humanitarian response and resilience building.
The meeting comes as Somalia faces mounting needs. According to the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), more than 4.6 million people are experiencing food insecurity, while 1.8 million children under five are expected to suffer from acute malnutrition this year.
“This conference represents an important opportunity for us to meet, share knowledge, and find practical solutions to the humanitarian challenges we face,” said SoDMA Chairman Mohamud Moalim in his opening remarks.
OCHA reports that food assistance in Somalia has dropped by over 50% compared to the same period in 2024, and only 15% of the $1.4 billion humanitarian appeal has been funded. The shortfall has forced the closure of critical health and nutrition facilities across the country.
George Conway, the United Nations Resident Coordinator in Somalia, emphasized the urgency of action:“Somalia is recovering from years of conflict and underinvestment. We must unite to address the drought and support vulnerable communities.”
The private sector also expressed support for long-term reform. Ahmed Khadar Jama, Chairman of the Somali Banks Association, highlighted the need for a shift away from donor dependency:“Research is needed to develop a mindset that helps Somalis move away from foreign aid and toward self-sufficiency.”
With an estimated 2 million additional people expected to fall into crisis in the coming months, participants said the focus must now turn to sustained collaboration, strategic investment, and restructured aid flows that prioritize local leadership and long-term resilience.
