Transforming Disaster Preparedness in Puntland: A Roadmap to Resilience

[Deeq A.]

Dr. Ibraahim Xareed Cali, a disaster management expert

Puntland, a region frequently exposed to natural disasters such as cyclones, droughts, floods, locust invasions, and epidemics, faces significant challenges in protecting lives, infrastructure, and livelihoods.

These disasters, whether sudden or slow-onset, disrupt essential services, threaten economic stability, and exacerbate vulnerabilities in affected communities. In response, Puntland is advancing a transformative approach to disaster preparedness and resilience, combining proactive policies, community empowerment, and technological innovation to mitigate risks and safeguard its future.

In 2024, the Puntland Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management introduced a disaster management policy, developed through consultations with key stakeholders, including government agencies, civil society organizations, and local communities.

This policy is a comprehensive framework designed to address the entire spectrum of disaster management, from risk reduction and preparedness to response and recovery. It emphasizes clear regulations, sustained funding, and inclusive participation to create a resilient and secure society where disasters no longer impede progress or sustainability.

Director of the Ministry’s Humanitarian Affairs Department

According to Ismaaciil Maxamuud Jaamac, Director of the Ministry’s Humanitarian Affairs Department, the policy aims to transform Puntland into a region capable of withstanding and recovering from natural disasters with minimal disruption. Central to this vision is the establishment of district-level disaster management committees in high-risk areas, tasked with raising public awareness, providing training on preparedness, and coordinating community responses. These grassroots initiatives empower local populations to take ownership of disaster management, enhancing their capacity to anticipate and respond to risks effectively.

Collaboration among stakeholders is a cornerstone of Puntland’s disaster preparedness strategy. Dr. Ibraahim Xareed Cali, a disaster management expert, underscores the need for cohesive efforts involving governments, NGOs, and local communities. He highlights the importance of leveraging advanced technologies such as early warning systems, hazard mapping, and real-time communication platforms to reduce disaster impacts. These tools not only enhance response capabilities but also support informed decision-making and risk reduction planning.

Non-governmental organizations play a pivotal role in Puntland’s disaster management ecosystem, complementing government efforts through technical expertise, resource provision, and capacity-building initiatives. These organizations bridge gaps in emergency response and preparedness, ensuring that plans are aligned with local needs and that vulnerable populations are prioritized. Their involvement strengthens community resilience and promotes sustainable practices that mitigate future risks.

Puntland’s approach to disaster preparedness is not limited to crisis management; it encompasses a broader vision of resilience-building. By integrating disaster risk reduction into development planning, fostering environmental stewardship, and prioritizing community empowerment, Puntland is laying the foundation for a future where natural disasters no longer dictate its developmental trajectory. Public education campaigns, tailored training programs, and innovative technologies are equipping individuals and institutions with the tools they need to address challenges proactively.

The journey toward resilience requires collective action, shared responsibility, and sustained commitment from all sectors of society. The challenges are significant, but so is the opportunity to transform how disasters are managed. Puntland’s comprehensive approach offers a blueprint for regions facing similar vulnerabilities, demonstrating that through strategic planning, collaboration, and innovation, the impacts of disasters can be minimized, and recovery can lead to growth and progress.

Puntland’s vision is clear: a region where disaster preparedness is embedded in its social, economic, and environmental systems, ensuring that no one is left behind in the face of adversity. By turning risks into opportunities for improvement, Puntland is not only protecting its communities today but also building a resilient and prosperous tomorrow.

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