The Mogadishu Environmental Summit 2023, held from October 2-4 at the Jazeera Palace Hotel, not only marked its impactful second annual meeting but also integrated a two-day workshop training and paper presentation focusing specifically on water management. Organized by Action for Environment along with SIMAD’s Institute of Climate and Environment, this seminal event assembled over 200 participants from diverse sectors, including government, international organizations, academia, and civil society.
Centering on the theme “Somalia and Water Crisis: Moving Beyond Projects,” the summit provided a critical platform to address the acute water crisis in Somalia and its extensive impacts on health, livelihoods, and overall development. Esteemed keynote speakers like Deputy Ministers Ibrahim Mohammed Ali and Dr. Sa’ed Mohammed Ali offered insights into the complexities of water management, highlighting the interconnectedness of water scarcity, climate change, and food security, and the pressing need for effective, policy-driven responses.
The summit’s agenda was enriched by comprehensive panel discussions that explored key areas such as strengthening cross-sectoral coordination, involving the private sector in sustainable water practices, and the profound influence of the water crisis on biodiversity.
Emphasizing the role of women in water crisis management, the panels recognized their indispensable contributions in navigating environmental challenges. The summit also underscored the importance of a consistent water management strategy across Somali cities, tailored to the distinct needs of each region. A notable feature of this year’s summit was the two-day workshop and paper presentation segment, which provided attendees with hands-on training and the latest research findings in water management.
This addition aimed to deepen understanding and enhance skills among professionals and students alike, fostering a more informed approach to tackling water-related issues. Culminating in a unified call for greater investment and support in water-focused initiatives, the Mogadishu Environmental Summit 2023 exemplified a shared commitment to advancing long-term, sustainable solutions for Somalia’s pressing water crisis and broader environmental challenges.
