The Italian Embassy in Mogadishu, the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation (AICS), and the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) have launched an initiative to improve the management of water and land resources in Somalia, valued at 2 million euros.
The initiative includes two components: on one hand, it addresses the effects of climate change, particularly by reducing the risk of floods that frequently affect the city of Qardho in Puntland. The second component aims to facilitate the gradual transfer of the SWALIM information system, developed by FAO, to Somali institutions and ministries, ensuring sustainability. The system provides data and information products useful for the sustainable management of the country’s land, water, and natural resources.
FAO Representative in Somalia, Etienne Peterschmitt, stated: “This project aligns with FAO’s mission to transform agri-food systems in Somalia, making them more resilient, sustainable, inclusive, and efficient. It will support critical functions of SWALIM, directly assisting Somalia’s federal and state governments. Moreover, it will ensure that SWALIM can continue to provide essential information on water, land, and natural resources to development partners, aiding in informed decision-making and the design and implementation of effective interventions.”
The Italian Ambassador to Somalia, Pier Mario Daccò Coppi, commented: “Italy’s long-standing support for initiatives aimed at improving local resource management highlights our commitment to providing Somali partners with essential tools and knowledge for proactive and informed decision-making. The challenges posed by climate change and water scarcity are global and thus require collective efforts to address. Today, Italy reaffirms its commitment to stand alongside Somalia in this crucial endeavor.”
The Head of the Nairobi Office of AICS, Giovanni Grandi, added: “When it comes to sustainably using environmental and natural resources, AICS shares the same interests as Somalia. By strengthening local capacities, we aim to promote sustainable development and improve the resilience of local communities. This initiative represents a significant step towards effective management of water and land resources, benefiting current and future generations.”
