Somalia’s President Calls for Stronger African Climate Cooperation at Addis Ababa Summit

Addis Ababa, Ethiopia – On September 8, 2025, Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud delivered a compelling call for greater African cooperation on climate action during his address at the Second Africa Climate Summit in Addis Ababa. His speech placed Somalia’s climate vulnerability at the center of continental discussions and urged African nations to act collectively against one of the greatest challenges of our time.

Somalia’s Climate Reality: High Vulnerability, Low Responsibility

President Mohamud emphasized the harsh reality faced by Somalia: the country contributes minimally to global greenhouse gas emissions, yet it remains among the nations most devastated by climate shocks. He reminded the summit that Somalia has already endured the worst drought in four decades (2021–2023), which displaced millions and created severe food insecurity for an estimated 7.8 million people.

“Somalia bears little responsibility for causing climate change, yet we are among the countries most affected by its consequences,” the President stated. His words highlighted a common paradox shared by many African nations: those least responsible for climate change are the ones paying the highest price.

National Climate Initiatives: A Path Toward Resilience

Despite the challenges, Somalia is taking bold steps to strengthen its climate resilience. President Mohamud outlined several national initiatives:

Updated Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC): Somalia has revised its climate commitment under the Paris Agreement, setting ambitious targets to reduce emissions and adapt to the changing climate.

Green Somalia Initiative: A flagship program that aims to plant 10 million trees, combating desertification and promoting ecological restoration.

National Climate Fund: Designed to mobilize financial resources for climate adaptation and mitigation projects, ensuring that local communities are better equipped to withstand future shocks.

These initiatives, the President explained, are part of Somalia’s broader strategy to transition from crisis-driven responses to long-term resilience building.

Call for Collective African Action

While national efforts are vital, President Mohamud stressed that climate change is a shared challenge requiring shared solutions. He urged African leaders to move beyond dialogue and translate commitments into action.

“We must advance joint efforts to confront the climate crisis, and this summit must deliver meaningful, continent-wide outcomes,” he said, calling for stronger integration of policies, joint resource mobilization, and united advocacy on the global stage.

The message was clear: Africa must not remain a passive victim of climate change but should stand as a united front, demanding accountability and climate justice from the international community while also strengthening its own internal cooperation.

The Broader African Context

The Addis Ababa summit has brought together leaders, policymakers, and climate experts from across the continent to chart Africa’s collective response to the climate crisis. The discussions go beyond national borders, focusing on sustainable development, renewable energy, food security, and adaptation finance.

For countries like Somalia, where recurrent droughts, floods, and desertification threaten lives and livelihoods, continental solidarity is not just symbolic — it is a matter of survival. Africa’s ability to negotiate with a unified voice at international forums such as COP30 will determine whether vulnerable states can secure the financial and technical support they desperately need.

Moving From Words to Action

President Mohamud’s speech resonates with a sense of urgency. The climate crisis is no longer a distant threat; it is a daily reality for millions across Africa. From drought-stricken Somalia to flood-prone Mozambique, the impacts are already disrupting lives, economies, and governance.

As the President concluded, the time for discussions is over. What Africa needs is implementation, innovation, and collaboration. Somalia’s voice adds weight to a growing continental demand: for a climate agenda that is fair, inclusive, and transformative.

Conclusion

Somalia’s call at the Addis Ababa summit reflects not only the nation’s struggle with climate change but also its determination to lead with solutions. Through initiatives like the Green Somalia Initiative and the National Climate Fund, the country is setting an example of proactive engagement, despite limited resources.