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Somalia has embarked on a transformative journey to combat the devastating effects of climate change with the launch of the Ugbaad project, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at boosting climate-resilient agriculture. Named after the Somali word for “fresh sprouting pasture,” Ugbaad symbolizes hope and renewal for a nation where nearly two-thirds of the population depend on agriculture for their livelihoods. This seven-year project, spearheaded by the Federal Government of Somalia and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), is backed by a $79.7 million investment from the Green Climate Fund (GCF).
The Ugbaad project comes at a critical time for Somalia, a country grappling with the dual challenges of climatic shocks and conflict. With nearly a quarter of the population facing acute food insecurity, the initiative seeks to address the root causes of vulnerability by restoring productive landscapes, promoting sustainable agricultural practices, and enhancing access to water and climate-resilient inputs such as seeds and fodder.
One of the project’s key objectives is to mitigate the impact of recurrent droughts, which have become increasingly severe and frequent in recent years. These droughts have devastated pastoralist communities, leading to the loss of up to 40% of livestock in affected households. By restoring 41,800 hectares of productive landscapes and implementing sustainable land management practices, Ugbaad aims to build resilience among agro-pastoralist communities and reduce the risk of displacement and food insecurity.
The project also seeks to address the growing threat of flooding, particularly along the Jubba and Shabelle rivers, where annual floods have destroyed property and livelihoods. Through community-led initiatives, Ugbaad will focus on preventing and repairing flood damage, ensuring that vulnerable populations are better equipped to withstand future climatic shocks.
At the heart of the Ugbaad project is a commitment to community participation and locally-led solutions. By involving local stakeholders in the planning and implementation process, the initiative aims to empower communities to take ownership of their development and build long-term resilience. The project will also strengthen the capacity of federal and state-level institutions to implement policies for sustainable landscape management and provide timely climate and meteorological information to farmers and pastoralists.
The Ugbaad project is expected to benefit over 2.1 million people, including 1.15 million direct recipients. Speaking at the project’s launch, Somalia’s Deputy Prime Minister Salah Jama emphasized the government’s dedication to integrating climate action into its national development agenda. “Through the Ugbaad project, we are creating opportunities to restore landscapes, secure resilient livelihoods, and build a sustainable future for all,” he stated.
The initiative has garnered widespread support from international partners, including the United Nations and the FAO. UN Resident Coordinator for Somalia George Conway highlighted the project’s potential to transform Somalia’s agricultural sector, stating, “The Ugbaad project illustrates how targeted investments can improve livelihoods, restore ecosystems, and ensure food security for the future.”
FAO Assistant Director-General Abebe Haile-Gabriel echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the importance of collaboration in achieving the project’s goals. “This initiative represents a significant step forward in tackling the pressing challenges posed by climate change and empowering vulnerable communities to adapt and thrive,” he said.
As Somalia takes bold steps to address the impacts of climate change, the Ugbaad project stands as a beacon of hope and a testament to the power of collective action. By fostering resilience and sustainability, the initiative aims to pave the way for a brighter and more secure future for Somalia’s agricultural communities.