By M.A. Egge
The President of the Republic of Somaliland, H.E. Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi Irro, flanked by the Vice President H.E. Mohamed Ali Aw Abdi, convened an extraordinary meeting of the Council of Ministers on Monday to discuss the worsening drought situation in the country, which has so far had a major impact on the lives of the people, livestock, water and food supply in the affected regions, especially in the regions along the coastal plains, from west to east of the country.
The meeting pondered on how to obtain reliable information and accurately assess the level of drought effect in all regions of the country, especially the regions bordering the Gubba region of Selel, Awdal, Sahil and Sanaag.
The cabinet also discussed the coordination of the government’s drought relief efforts and the development of a comprehensive national plan to address the recurring droughts, both now and in the future.
The President heard a detailed report from cabinet members who have just visited Selel and Awdal regions to monitor the drought situation. They noted that the areas they visited were experiencing very difficult living conditions, and were hit by severe droughts that have posed a serious threat to the lives of people and their livestock.
The discussion largely dwelt on the most appropriate ways and means to provide relief to the drought-stricken areas, that include provision of water, food, and medicinal relief supplies to the people and animals in need.
The President told the Council that the national Emergency and Relief efforts of the drought-stricken communities is the primary responsibility of the government, further need of response through united and collective measures as a nation to save our people in need was indispensable.
According to a press release from the Presidency by Spokesman Hussein Adam Igeh, Hussein-deyr, the Head of State underscored at the meeting the need for forging unity and solidarity hence at the same time foremost beseech to the Almighty God through prayers for respite.
The President at the same time called on all national institutions and patriots, be they the members of the public, the business fraternity, the clergy, scholars, and the Diaspora community to open their hands and hearts, and unite in the drought relief and eke support to the needy.