WORLD – The Green Climate Fund (GCF) has recently allocated US$134 million to two projects aimed at strengthening climate resilience in the agricultural communities of Somalia and Iraq. 

Led by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), these initiatives will focus on helping farmers and pastoralists adapt to the rising threats posed by climate change, including frequent droughts, floods, and dwindling water supplies.

Zahedi noted that the project’s goal is to provide essential tools, technologies, and training, enabling communities to adapt to climate impacts, ensure food security, and support their livelihoods. 

The announcement was made at the fortieth meeting of the GCF Board held in Songdo, Incheon, Republic of Korea, from October 21 to 24.

“Ugbaad” Project Targets Climate Resilience in Somalia

Somalia’s ongoing battle with poverty and conflict is compounded by increasingly severe climate conditions. 

To address these issues, the Somali government, with support from FAO, has introduced a US$95 million project named “Ugbaad” – meaning “hope” in Somali. 

This seven-year initiative represents the largest GCF climate investment FAO has led, focusing on building climate resilience across Somalia’s agricultural sector.

The project aims to enhance the climate adaptability of Somalia’s rural communities by promoting sustainable land management, expanding water access, implementing climate-resilient farming methods, and strengthening local value chains. 

The initiative includes the restoration of 50,000 hectares of degraded land, training for 86,000 farmers and pastoralists in climate-resilient agriculture, and the repair of key infrastructure such as irrigation canals and rural roads.

In its commitment to improve food security, Ugbaad will work to increase agricultural production while reducing Somalia’s dependence on food imports and humanitarian aid. 

The project targets direct benefits for 1.2 million individuals, with an additional 973,000 expected to gain indirect support through enhanced access to water and the adoption of sustainable farming practices.

The project’s scope extends to promoting gender equality, with women accounting for half of the beneficiaries. By involving women in agricultural activities and decision-making processes, Ugbaad aims to support equitable development in affected regions.