Somalia’s newly appointed Environment Minister, Major General Bashir Mohamed Abdi, has emphasized the critical need for clean energy and environmental conservation in the country. The minister, who previously held the Family and Human Rights docket, underscored this during an official visit to the Somali Disaster Management Agency (SoDMA) on Sunday.
The visit marked a significant step in Bashir’s tenure, as he familiarized himself with the operations of SoDMA and received briefings on the pressing environmental challenges facing Somalia. Among the key highlights was a detailed report from the National Multi-Hazard Early Warning Center, which provided insights into the severe drought conditions currently affecting many regions of the country.
Minister Bashir pledged to build a robust partnership with SoDMA, aiming to ensure a coordinated approach to disaster management and climate adaptation strategies. His commitment reflects Somalia’s broader efforts to tackle environmental and climate-related challenges, which have increasingly threatened the country’s socio-economic stability.
SoDMA Commissioner Mohamud Moalim welcomed Bashir to the ministry, expressing his full support for the new minister’s vision. Moalim highlighted the importance of fostering strong collaboration between the Ministry of Environment and SoDMA to address the dual challenges of climate change and disaster management effectively.
“This partnership is crucial for driving sustainable solutions in disaster preparedness and climate resilience,” Moalim noted.
Bashir’s appointment comes amid a recent cabinet reshuffle that saw Khadija Mohamed Al-Makhzoumi transition to the Ministry of Family and Human Rights. During his tenure in his former role, Bashir spearheaded key policy advancements and social reforms, earning widespread respect from government officials and civil society organizations alike.
His leadership in the Environment Ministry is seen as a vital development for Somalia, a nation grappling with the effects of climate change, including recurrent droughts, deforestation, and environmental degradation. The minister’s focus on clean energy and conservation aligns with global efforts to combat climate change while promoting sustainable development.
With Somalia’s environmental challenges mounting, the new minister’s proactive approach offers hope for a more resilient and sustainable future.
