SODMA Urges Government-Media Cooperation Ahead of Forecast El Nino Rains

Somalia, Aug. 2, 2026 – Somalia's National Disaster Management Agency (SoDMA) called on Saturday for closer cooperation between government and media to strengthen public preparedness ahead of forecast El Nino rains expected to begin in October, according to a statement issued after a national meeting. The meeting brought together communications directors from federal ministries and agencies, representatives of state and independent media, and government officials to discuss preparedness for the anticipated weather conditions. According to the statement, participants agreed that stronger cooperation between SoDMA and the media was needed to improve the delivery of early warning messages and increase public awareness of the risks posed by heavy rainfall. The statement said climate forecasts indicate that much of Somalia could receive above-average rainfall beginning in October, raising the risk of flooding, flash floods, displacement and other humanitarian challenges linked to climate change. Participants said previous disaster warnings had not always been taken seriously by the public, prompting recommendations for more consistent and credible communication through both traditional and digital media, the statement said. The meeting also recommended regular training for journalists on climate reporting, weather forecasting and disaster risk communication, as well as daily information sharing between SoDMA and media organizations during emergencies. According to the statement, participants also called for greater use of mobile phone messaging services and other telecommunications platforms to distribute emergency alerts, while recommending that early warning messages be translated into local languages, including Maay, to reach communities in high-risk areas. The statement said participants highlighted flood risks in Mogadishu, where blocked drainage systems and standing water could worsen flooding if heavy rains materialise. The recommendations form part of Somalia's broader efforts to strengthen disaster preparedness and reduce climate-related risks through closer coordination between government agencies, media organizations, telecommunications companies and other stakeholders, the statement said.