MOGADISHU — The Somali Disaster Management Agency (SoDMA) and the United States have reaffirmed their long-standing humanitarian partnership during a high-level meeting held this week at the U.S. Embassy in Mogadishu.
SoDMA Commissioner Mohamud Maalim Abdulle met with U.S. Ambassador Richard H. Riley IV to discuss expanding cooperation amid worsening drought conditions and rising humanitarian needs across Somalia. The talks focused on improving coordination, scaling emergency assistance, and reinforcing efforts to protect vulnerable communities affected by recurring climate shocks.
Ambassador Riley assured the Commissioner that the United States would continue to stand with Somalia as a leading supporter of humanitarian response efforts. He emphasized that assisting drought-affected populations remains a top priority for the U.S. mission.
The United States has been Somalia’s largest humanitarian donor, providing more than USD 7 billion in humanitarian and development aid over the past decade. Washington’s support was particularly critical during the devastating 2022 drought, when it contributed USD 1.3 billion in emergency funding—including over USD 700 million in direct humanitarian aid—helping avert famine and enabling rapid crisis response.
The meeting also explored how the U.S. could once again take a significant role in addressing the ongoing drought and strengthening long-term resilience for communities vulnerable to climate-driven disasters. The U.S. Embassy has consistently advocated for Somalia during crises, helping draw broader international support.
At the conclusion of the talks, Commissioner Abdulle expressed deep gratitude to the United States for its sustained assistance and commitment to bolstering Somalia’s humanitarian operations and state-building efforts.
Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to continued collaboration as Somalia confronts mounting humanitarian challenges.
