The Daango iyo Deegaan event in Hiddossor, Mogadishu, focused on a pressing environmental issue: “Deforestation in Rural and Urban Areas of Somalia and Its Solutions.” This crucial session featured insights from Mr. Abdisatar Arabow, a passionate environmental activist, and Dr. Sharif Osman, Director of the Institute of Water, Environment, and Peace at Mogadishu University. They discussed the multifaceted causes of deforestation in Somalia and proposed a suite of solutions, including empowering local communities, enhancing awareness, and advocating for more robust environmental regulations. This event was pivotal in addressing one of the most significant environmental challenges facing Somalia today.
The event also included interactive breakout sessions where participants brainstormed practical solutions tailored to their specific communities. Attendees shared their experiences with deforestation and its impact on local ecosystems, agriculture, and livelihoods. This collaborative approach fostered a sense of unity among participants, as they recognized the shared responsibility to combat deforestation. By empowering local voices and encouraging grassroots initiatives, the event aimed to create a network of advocates who could implement sustainable practices and restoration efforts in their respective areas.
Moreover, the Daango iyo Deegaan event emphasized the importance of integrating traditional knowledge with modern environmental practices. Mr. Abdisatar Arabow highlighted how indigenous practices, passed down through generations, can play a vital role in sustainable land management and reforestation efforts. By valuing and incorporating local wisdom, the initiative seeks to create more effective and culturally relevant solutions to deforestation. As the event concluded, participants left with a renewed sense of purpose and actionable strategies to protect Somalia’s forests, ensuring that future generations can benefit from the rich natural resources that the country has to offer.
