Somalia is one of the least developed countries in the Horn of Africa and intrinsically presents exclusive challenges in terms of natural resource management. As a result of nearly three decades of civil unrest, Somalias governance structures have fallen apart. Land degradation is a key environmental issue in Somalia, closely linked to desertification, drought and unsustainable livestock and agricultural practices. Environmental degradation and climate change have disproportionate impacts on women and children in Somalia. Women often bear the brunt of coping with climate-related shocks including floods and drought.  Food insecurity and livelihoods, possible hazardous waste, lack of marine and coastal management, and the mitigation and management of natural disasters are other environmental concerns. SADO interventions will focus on:

1. Enhance the communities awareness on the impact of climate on conflict and instability and their interconnection.
2. Build the capacities of locals in the sustainable management of forests and production and management of charcoal.

• Promote environmental mediation and raise awareness on the links between the climate and conflict.

1. Building capacities of communities in the management and transformation of conflict and handling of cross border conflicts over resources such as water and pastures.
2. Encourage and promote tree planting initiatives and effective community-led flood protection mechanisms.

Climate change refers to long-term shifts in temperatures and weather patterns. However, it encompasses not only rising average temperatures but also extreme weather events, shifting wildlife populations and habitats, sea level rise, melting glaciers, warming oceans, drought, flooding and among other impacts. All of these changes are emerging as humans continue to add heat-trapping greenhouse gases to the atmosphere. These events affect things that we depend upon and value, like water, energy, transportation, wildlife, agriculture, ecosystems, and human health.

Understanding the root causes of poverty, hunger and environmental degradation, SADO in collaboration with partners develops multi-faceted approaches to help communities adopt a climate-smart way of life to reverse the adverse effects of climate change such as floods and droughts.