PACJA Relaunches Somalia’s Designated National Platform to Strengthen Climate Action

A New Chapter for Climate Resilience in Somalia

The Pan-African Climate Justice Alliance (PACJA) successfully relaunched its Designated National Platform (DNP) in Somalia – the Somali Climate Action Platform (SCAP) marking a significant milestone in the country’s climate action journey. The event, held on February 20, 2025, at Décalé Airport Hotel in Mogadishu, brought together over 50 stakeholders including civil society organizations, government representatives, academic institutions, and development partners.

Somalia, one of Africa’s most climate-vulnerable nations, faces disproportionate impacts from the climate crisis despite contributing minimally to global greenhouse gas emissions. The country has experienced recurring cycles of drought, floods, and environmental degradation that have devastated communities and exacerbated food insecurity. According to projections shared at the event, extensive areas of Somalia will exceed a 2°C temperature increase by the end of this century relative to late 20th century averages.

A Platform for Collective Action

SCAP, officially launched by Yussuf Samatar, Director General of the Ministry of Environment & Climate Change of the Federal Republic of Somalia, will serve as the primary interface between PACJA and its members in Somalia. The platform brings together 12 founding member organizations committed to advancing climate resilience and justice.

In his speech (delivered by Charles Mwangi), PACJA Executive Director Dr. Mithika Mwenda highlighted the devastating impacts of climate change across Africa and criticized the inadequate climate finance commitments made at COP29, which settled on USD 300 billion instead of the needed USD 1.3 trillion. Dr. Mwenda emphasized the necessity for non-state actors to “take the driver’s seat in climate action” and pursue “a just, people-centered inclusive, gender-sensitive, and sustainable economy.”

Ahmed Nur Yussuf, Executive Director of SCAP, presented the organization’s vision of creating communities that are resilient and free from climate change vulnerabilities. SCAP’s mission focuses on driving collaborative, Somalia-led climate action through policy advocacy, community resilience initiatives, and sustainable practices.

International Support and Collaboration

The launch event received significant support from international partners. Ambassador Gabrio Marinozzi of the European Union Delegation to Somalia emphasized the EU’s commitment to working with organizations addressing climate change. Ummy Dubow, Care International Country Director for Somalia, pledged to work hand in hand with SCAP to achieve shared goals.

Ambassador Gamal M. Hassan, Director of IGAD Secretariat Center of Excellence for Climate Adaptation and Environmental Protection (CECAEP), noted that this initiative will amplify climate justice advocacy and strengthen resilience across Somalia.

Strategic Focus Areas

SCAP’s work spans six critical focus areas:

• Community adaptation to environmental challenges
• Emission mitigation
• Climate finance mobilization
• Inclusive action with emphasis on gender-responsive policies and youth leadership
• Capacity building
• Technology and knowledge management

As conflicts across the Horn of Africa continue to be amplified by climate stressors, platforms like SCAP are essential in building the collaborative frameworks needed for lasting peace and security in the region.

Looking Ahead

The successful launch of SCAP marks the beginning of a transformative journey for climate action in Somalia. As emphasized during the closing remarks, “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.”

With SCAP now officially launched, the focus shifts to implementation, ensuring that this platform delivers tangible benefits to the communities most affected by climate change in Somalia. The time for action is now!