Mogadishu (LM) The absence of a national agency providing daily, weekly, monthly, and seasonal forecasts undermines the rights of citizens to safety and access to reliable information. The draft law for establishing the National Meteorological and Climate Services Authority of the Federal Government of Somalia is a critical step toward building a robust national institution that addresses governance, citizen safety, economic development, and climate adaptation.
On December 15, 2025, the House of Representatives of the Federal Republic of Somalia commenced the first reading of the draft law. This initiative is part of a strategic move to establish essential national institutions crucial for modern governance, citizen safety, economic growth, and climate resilience.
The preparation of this draft law officially began in August 2022, in response to the growing need for Somalia to have a legally established national agency to oversee meteorological and climate services.
During its formulation, extensive consultations were held with federal ministries, regional governments, relevant government agencies, Somali experts, universities, and other stakeholders. This process was designed to ensure alignment with Somalia’s international obligations and the country’s federal structure.
By October 2023, the draft law was approved by the Council of Ministers of the Federal Republic of Somalia before being presented to the Parliament for constitutional processing. Concurrently, a comprehensive strategic plan was developed to ensure the agency’s rapid operational readiness once the law becomes effective.
A national meteorological and climate authority is crucial for any modern state. Weather forecasting plays a pivotal role in saving lives by providing early warnings about floods, droughts, landslides, storms, and hazardous climatic conditions. These early warnings can significantly reduce disaster losses and protect lives, livestock, and property.
A government that fails to provide reliable early warnings has fallen short in its fundamental duty to protect its citizens.
Weather and climate data are strategic national assets. Without a formal national agency, this data is managed by external entities, and climate-related decisions are made overseas. Establishing the Meteorological and Climate Services Authority will enhance governmental sovereignty and the country’s ability to manage its strategic information.
From an economic perspective, weather forecasts are vital for sectors such as agriculture, food security, fishing, aviation, trade, and major infrastructure planning. Substantial investment cannot occur in a country lacking reliable climate data and a national agency providing official forecasts.
Climate change poses a national risk impacting all aspects of life. The Meteorological Services Authority will develop climate services to support planning for climate adaptation, equipping the government with scientific information to make informed and sustainable decisions.
Somalia is a member of the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), which comes with obligations such as collecting and sharing weather data, participating in global warning systems, and representing Somalia internationally. These responsibilities cannot be fulfilled without a legally established national agency. The Meteorological and Climate Services Authority will serve as Somalia’s official representative in global meteorological and climate matters.
Somalia has secured external financial commitments for establishing the Meteorological Authority. Much of the agency’s funding is contingent upon the enactment of this draft law. The previously prepared strategic plan ensures that the agency can swiftly become operational once the law is in effect.
The first reading of the draft law for establishing the National Meteorological and Climate Services Authority is a significant governmental step toward constructing a foundational institution essential for citizen safety, economic development, fulfilling international obligations, and securing the nation’s future.
By: Abdirashid Nur
Climate Services and Climate Information – HAO
Email: Cabdirashiid88@gmail.com
Leadership Magazine
Email: info@leadershipmagazine-som.com
