At the 2026 World Overflight Risk Conference in Malta, the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Secretary-General Juan Carlos Salazar warned that rapidly evolving weapon technologies are increasing the risk to civilian aircraft operating in or near conflict zones. He stressed that while the aviation sector has shown strong resilience during recent geopolitical crises, operational adaptability alone is not enough to address growing security threats.
To strengthen aviation safety, he urged Member States to focus on three key priorities: real-time intelligence sharing to identify threats to civilian aircraft, improved risk assessment to support timely airspace closures, and stronger civil-military coordination to prevent misidentification of civilian planes. ICAO is also developing a Global Crisis Management Framework and updating safety protocols, while reinforcing the principle under the Chicago Convention that attacks on civilian aircraft are strictly prohibited.
In Somalia, worsening drought conditions continue to drive large-scale displacement, with nearly 62,000 people forced to flee since the beginning of the year. According to the International Organization for Migration (IOM), drought-related displacement has increased by 22 per cent compared to last year, and projections suggest that another 125,000 people could be displaced in the coming months if conditions do not improve. As water sources dry up and livestock die, many families are left with no choice but to abandon their homes in search of survival.
The crisis is placing significant pressure on urban centres, where displaced pastoral and farming communities are moving in search of food and water. However, cities are struggling to absorb the influx, leading to overcrowded informal settlements with limited access to clean water and sanitation, increasing the risk of disease outbreaks. While emergency aid is being provided, humanitarian agencies warn that resources are insufficient to match the scale of need, calling for long-term investment in water infrastructure to build resilience against future climate shocks.
In Ethiopia’s Somali Region, efforts are underway to address similar climate challenges through renewable energy-based solutions. The World Food Programme and the Ethiopian Government have launched a solar-powered irrigation project in Gode under the “IFTIIN” initiative, meaning “light” or “hope.” Funded by Germany, the project draws water from the Shebelle River to enable year-round farming in an area traditionally dependent on rainfall.
The initiative is designed to strengthen food security and reduce reliance on humanitarian aid by helping communities adapt to climate shocks. It supports around 85,000 people through irrigation infrastructure, livestock ponds, and flood protection systems, while also linking farmers to markets to improve income opportunities. Early results show significant economic impact, with local farmers earning nearly $290,000 between 2024 and 2025, highlighting the potential of climate-smart agriculture to transform livelihoods in vulnerable regions.
