Saudi Arabia is the first country to respond to Somalia's appeal to address the drought
In a move reflecting the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's leading role in global humanitarian work, the head of Somalia's National Disaster Management Agency, Mahmoud Moalim Abdullahi, confirmed that the Kingdom was the first country to officially respond to the urgent humanitarian appeal launched by the Federal Republic of Somalia. This swift response, delivered through the Kingdom's humanitarian arm, the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center, aims to provide assistance to those affected by the severe drought plaguing the country due to low rainfall and climate change impacting the Horn of Africa.
Details of the urgent Saudi response
The announcement of this initiative came during a strategic meeting held by the Somali official with the Ambassador of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques to Somalia, Ahmed bin Mohammed Al-Mawlid, and in the presence of the Director of the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center's branch in Africa, Yazid Al-Hamoud. Discussions focused on mechanisms for rapid intervention and coordinating efforts to deliver urgent relief aid. This aid package aims to rescue approximately 84,000 individuals from the most vulnerable and needy groups in the disaster-stricken areas, thus contributing to alleviating human suffering and providing basic necessities such as food and medicine.
The context of the crisis and the importance of early intervention
This Saudi response is of paramount importance given the environmental and geographical context of Somalia. The Horn of Africa region is facing increasing climatic challenges that have led to recurring droughts, threatening food security and negatively impacting the livestock and agricultural sectors upon which the population depends. The Kingdom's early intervention is a crucial pillar in preventing the crisis from escalating into a full-blown humanitarian catastrophe, and it serves as an incentive for the international community and UN organizations to expedite the provision of necessary support.
The leading role of the King Salman Relief Center
The head of the Somali National Agency expressed his deep gratitude to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, praising its unwavering and fraternal support for the Somali people during various hardships and crises. For his part, Ambassador Ahmed bin Mohammed Al-Mawlid explained that these efforts are in implementation of the directives of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, and His Royal Highness Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz, Prime Minister – may God protect them both – emphasizing the wise leadership's commitment to standing by brotherly and friendly nations. This aid reflects the depth of the historical relations between the two countries and underscores the Kingdom's pivotal role as a key international player in the field of humanitarian relief. The King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center consistently strives to extend a helping hand to those in need around the world without discrimination, thereby strengthening regional stability and supporting development and peace efforts.
