Somali Observatory for Humanitarian Affairs The Voice of Reality.. The Eye of Humanitarian Truth in Somalia
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BAIDOA — Baidoa, the interim capital of Somalia’s South West State, yesterday marked the conclusion of the “Country Humanitarian Forum”, organized by the Somali Disaster Management Agency (SoDMA). The high-level gathering brought together government officials, international partners, civil society, and private sector leaders to forge a unified vision for Somali-led humanitarian action that strengthens self-reliance.
Held under the theme “Driving Localized, Inclusive, and Resilient Humanitarian Action Amid Rising Needs”, the one-day forum served as a platform for in-depth dialogue on the country’s escalating humanitarian challenges and the transition from short-term relief to long-term resilience strategies.
Calls to End Dependency on Foreign Aid
In his opening address, Acting President and Speaker of the South West State Parliament, Ali Said Fiqi, urged breaking the cycle of reliance on foreign aid by investing in agriculture and water infrastructure, stressing that “peace must remain the foundation of all our efforts.”
The Somali Disaster Management Agency (SoDMA) Chairman Mahamud Moallim Abdule presented a clear picture of the crisis, pointing to the severe drought in the Awdal region affecting over 600,000 people, as well as displacement in Hiran, Middle Shabelle, and Gedo.
He announced the establishment of a $500,000 emergency relief fund, with an initial $200,000 contribution from the Banadir Regional Administration, while stressing that more resources were urgently needed.
Nimo Hassan, Director of the Somali NGO Consortium, emphasized that lasting progress depends on respecting Somali government leadership and systems, stating that “empowering the Somali people to set their own priorities and shape their future” is the ultimate measure of success.
Consensus on a New Humanitarian Framework
During discussions, Galmudug’s Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Abdirahman Mohamed Dirie “Makawi,” warned about shrinking funds and their impact on life-saving services. UN Special Representative to Somalia, George Conway, called for a broad-based national alliance to address the crisis, noting that responsibility should not rest solely on traditional actors.
By the forum’s conclusion, participants agreed that temporary fixes are no longer enough. They called for a new humanitarian framework, driven by Somali leadership, to ensure sustainability and strengthen community resilience in the face of future challenges.
