By Horn Africa News Staff
Tuesday, July 8, 2025 | Mogadishu
Somalia and the United Arab Emirates have reaffirmed their partnership in tackling the growing humanitarian crisis and worsening drought conditions across the Horn of Africa nation.
The Commissioner of the Somali National Disaster Management Agency (SoDMA), Mohamud Moalim, held high-level talks on Monday with the UAE Ambassador to Somalia, Ahmed Al-Rumaithi, in Mogadishu. The meeting aimed to enhance cooperation between the two nations, focusing on immediate relief efforts and long-term resilience strategies for drought-affected communities.
According to an official statement issued by SoDMA, the discussions emphasized the urgent need to deliver humanitarian assistance to northern regions of Somalia, where thousands of families are currently facing severe water shortages, food insecurity, and displacement due to persistent drought.
“The situation in the northern parts of the country remains critical,” said Commissioner Moalim. “We are working closely with international partners to ensure life-saving aid reaches the most vulnerable communities.”
Beyond short-term relief, the talks also centered on sustainable solutions, including plans to drill water wells in drought-prone areas. These efforts aim to strengthen local resilience and reduce dependency on emergency assistance.
As part of the discussions, Commissioner Moalim announced plans for an upcoming official visit to the United Arab Emirates. The visit will involve direct engagement with Emirati humanitarian and development agencies to mobilize additional resources for Somalia’s emergency response and recovery programs.
Ambassador Al-Rumaithi, for his part, reiterated the UAE’s steadfast commitment to supporting the Somali people during times of crisis. He confirmed that a new shipment of humanitarian aid is expected to arrive in Mogadishu in the coming days.
“The UAE stands with Somalia in addressing its humanitarian challenges,” the ambassador said. “We are committed to expanding our assistance, particularly in the areas of food security, healthcare, and water access.”
The UAE has been one of Somalia’s most consistent humanitarian partners in recent years, delivering vital aid to communities affected by conflict, climate change, and natural disasters. Past assistance has included emergency food distribution, mobile medical services, and the construction of key infrastructure such as roads and health centers.
Somalia continues to face a complex humanitarian emergency, with over six million people in need of assistance, according to recent UN reports. The Horn of Africa region has endured repeated cycles of drought, made worse by climate change, environmental degradation, and ongoing insecurity.
Government officials say partnerships like the one with the UAE are crucial to bridging immediate needs and building long-term resilience among Somali communities.
