President Hassan Sheikh Mohamoud’s Address at COP28: A Turning Point for Somalia’s Climate Action

In the grand halls of COP28, his Excellency President Hassan Sheikh Mohamoud, with the weight of a nation’s struggle against climate change on his shoulders, delivered a stirring address that resonated far beyond the conference walls.

Climate change is not a theoretical threat looming in the distant future for Somalia; it is a devastating present-day reality. President Hassan brought this to the world’s attention, highlighting the severe floods that have recently ravaged our nation, affecting an estimated 2.4 million people. This isn’t just a statistic; it’s a testament to the urgent need for action.

Somalia as Architects of Solutions

A central theme in President Hassan’s speech was the portrayal of Africa, and Somalia in particular, not just as victims of climate change but as architects of solutions. This narrative shift is crucial. It’s about recognizing our agency and potential to contribute meaningfully to the global fight against climate change.

Equitable Climate Finance

The President’s advocacy for equitable climate finance and damage funds is more than a plea; it’s a demand for climate justice. Somalia’s minimal contribution to global emissions stands in stark contrast to the disproportionate impact we suffer. This disparity calls for a fair and just approach to global climate finance and support.

Responding to President Hassan’s call for increased access to climate finance at COP28, the United Kingdom has announced that Somalia will be selected as a pioneer country for the Taskforce on Access to Climate Finance. Additionally, the United States has declared its intention to join the UK as a co-anchor in this initiative. This marked a monumental step towards addressing the climate finance disparity and reinforces the global commitment to supporting countries like Somalia in their climate resilience efforts.

Global Unity: The Way Forward

President Hassan’s message is clear: combating the effects of climate change requires global unity. The challenges faced by Somalia are a mirror reflecting the struggles of many developing countries. It’s a global issue that demands a global response.

The Ministry of Environment and Climate Change reaffirms its support for President Hassan’s vision and remains committed to working collaboratively with international partners to secure a sustainable and resilient future for Somalia.