Somalia secures key agricultural investments at World Agriculture Conference
SOMALIA – Somalia has taken significant steps to strengthen its agricultural sector, securing vital international support at the World Agriculture Conference in Italy.
Led by the Somali Minister of Agriculture and Irrigation, Mohamed Abdi Hayir Maareeye, the delegation from Somalia participated in discussions with representatives from over 170 nations, focusing on strategies to enhance global food security and rural development.
During the event, Somalia reinforced its position in international agricultural cooperation by fulfilling its annual financial contribution to the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD).
This step granted Somalia access to critical development projects, including the Rural Livelihoods Resilience Project (RLRP), which aims to enhance the well-being of rural communities.
Minister Maareeye emphasized the importance of these efforts in building a strong foundation for sustainable farming practices.
“We are committed to ensuring that our agricultural sector thrives and contributes to the economic stability of our nation,” he stated.
The conference provided Somalia with an opportunity to present its agricultural investment potential to international partners.
The minister engaged in discussions with global leaders to attract investment and technical support to strengthen the country’s farming sector.
In addition to securing funding from IFAD, Somalia recently received a USD 100 million investment from the Green Climate Fund (GCF) to develop climate-resilient farming methods.
This approval, granted at the GCF’s 40th Board Meeting, highlights the urgency of addressing climate change challenges in Somalia.
“This approval marks a pivotal moment for climate resilience in Somalia, showing that when there’s a will, the international community can act swiftly to support those most in need,” said Khadija Mohamed Al-Makhzoumi, a key figure in climate finance who attended the board meeting.
Agriculture plays a crucial role in Somalia’s economy, but unpredictable weather patterns have made traditional farming methods less reliable.
The 2023 drought, the worst in four decades, forced many communities to reconsider livestock-based livelihoods.
As a result, farming is becoming more prominent, particularly in regions like Puntland, where the focus is shifting toward more sustainable agricultural practices.
Somalia is working toward building a more resilient farming sector that can withstand environmental challenges while ensuring food security and economic stability for its people.
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