Somalia Fights for Climate Finance Fairness

Somalia confronts an acute climate crisis, with a drought expected to impact five million people. Without substantial adaptation support, climate-related disasters could cost the nation up to $100 billion by 2050. However, Somalia receives less than one percent of the needed climate funding annually, a stark contrast to the humanitarian aid it receives. This imbalance underscores a global flaw: it's easier to fund recovery than prevention.

Many climate-vulnerable countries, often grappling with conflict, receive minimal climate finance despite being low emitters facing severe risks. This situation deepens insecurity and economic fragility. The "high-risk" perception by climate funds and complex application processes hinder these nations. However, the Improved and Equitable Access to Climate Finance Network (IEACF Network) was launched to provide a unified voice for countries facing dual vulnerabilities.

Somalia is taking a leading role by submitting its third nationally determined contribution (NDC) and establishing a National Climate Fund. These actions signal ambition from the most vulnerable nations. Transparent and accessible climate finance is crucial for resilience, not a luxury. International cooperation is vital to address climate and conflict risks jointly, preventing an endless cycle of crisis response.