By Goth Mohamed Goth
The Vice President of the Republic of Somaliland, Mr. Mohamed Ali Aw-Abdi, officially opened the National Conference on Environmental Protection and Climate Change Adaptation, organized by the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change.
In his opening address, the Vice President underscored the government’s strong commitment to advancing environmental development and addressing the challenges posed by climate change. He remarked:
“The world has recently undergone significant transformations, particularly with the onset of climate change. While Somaliland initially lacked awareness of this issue, we are now witnessing its profound impacts. If we fail to take preventive measures, plan effectively, and adapt, both our people and our environment will face unprecedented challenges.”
The Vice President praised the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change for its proactive efforts in tackling the escalating climate crisis. He stated:
“In just two months since taking office, the Waddani government has prioritized the implementation of programs aligned with its five-year development plan. I commend the Ministry of Environment, under the leadership of its Minister, for organizing this vital conference. We hope this event will not only serve as a platform for discussion but also produce actionable outcomes that benefit both rural and urban communities across Somaliland.”
In his closing remarks, the Vice President stressed the importance of raising public awareness about climate change adaptation, particularly given its impact on livestock, which forms the backbone of Somaliland’s economy. He added:
“This is a formidable challenge that requires us to educate our people, especially as climate change increasingly affects our livestock. Over 70% of our population relies on livestock, and with the current drought persisting for two months, our herds are under severe strain. Therefore, strategic planning and adaptation are imperative.”
The National Conference on Environmental Protection and Climate Change Adaptation seeks to address the ongoing climate challenges in Somaliland, which have significantly impacted both human livelihoods and the environment.
Organized by the Ministry of Environment, the conference aligns with the government’s national responsibilities and its role in fostering economic growth and development. The event aims to promote collaboration and support for climate change adaptation initiatives across the country.