MOGADISHU, Jan. 23 (Xinhua) -- Somalia and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) on Thursday called for increased investment in anticipatory action to mitigate the anticipated adverse climate impacts on the 2025 Gu (rainy) season.
The Somali Disaster Management Agency (SoDMA) and the FAO said in a statement issued in the Somali capital of Mogadishu that urgent preparedness measures are essential to safeguard Somali communities from the anticipated below-normal rainfall forecast for the March-April-May Gu season.
The organizations reiterated the urgent need for immediate and coordinated action among all stakeholders, including international partners and local communities, to address the worsening drought conditions.
SODMA Commissioner Mohamud Moallim noted the critical need for increased investment in anticipatory action. "Since the last rainy season has already failed and the upcoming one is predicted to be below normal, now is the right time to anticipate what might potentially be a full-fledged drought hazard, which might last for several seasons to come."
FAO Representative in Somalia Etienne Peterschmitt said the UN food agency is committed to supporting Somalia in building resilience programs, providing evidence-based analysis, early warning, and data-driven approaches to mitigate the impact of drought.
"Efforts include unconditional cash support, water trucking, and pre-positioning of relief packages to save lives and livelihoods while reducing displacement and household vulnerabilities," he added.
According to the FAO, the forecast predicts late rains, prolonged dry spells, and increased temperatures, and reflects what was experienced in 2017 and 2021. The dry conditions could significantly undermine agricultural productivity, water availability, and overall resilience.
The two organizations said the provision of early warning information on the onset and performance of the rains and advisory on the best-suited crop varieties for the below-normal rains should be prioritized, alongside access to fodder and livestock treatment programs to significantly reduce stress on animals and secure food supplies. ■
