The Federal Government of Somalia, in partnership with the African Development Bank Group, the World Food Programme (WFP), and UNOPS, has launched an $11.8 million initiative aimed at strengthening climate resilience and improving food security for drought-affected communities.
The three-year programme, titled “Activating Climate-Resilient Agricultural Livelihoods in Somalia” (ACALS), will support approximately 180,000 people across Hirshabelle and Puntland. The initiative is funded by the African Development Fund and focuses on rebuilding agricultural and pastoral systems impacted by recurring drought and climate shocks.
The project is designed to improve land and water management, increase agricultural productivity, expand market access, and strengthen disaster preparedness systems. It will also support irrigation rehabilitation, climate-resilient farming practices, and business development opportunities, particularly for women and young people in rural communities.
In addition, the programme will introduce early warning systems, community training, and ecosystem-based climate adaptation measures to help reduce vulnerability to future climate-related crises. Officials emphasized that the initiative represents a shift from short-term humanitarian relief toward long-term resilience and sustainable development.
Somalia continues to face severe food insecurity, with millions of people experiencing crisis-level hunger due to drought, conflict, and economic pressures. The ACALS programme aims to address these challenges by building stronger livelihoods and improving local capacity to respond to environmental shocks.
Partner organizations highlighted that the project also strengthens institutional cooperation and infrastructure development. UNOPS noted that the initiative will focus on climate-resilient infrastructure and community governance systems to ensure long-term sustainability.
The collaboration marks the first joint project between WFP and UNOPS in Somalia and aligns with the country’s National Transformation Plan for 2025–2029, reinforcing efforts to build a more resilient agricultural economy and improve food security outcomes nationwide.
