A new joint project by the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) and the World Food Programme (WFP), financed by the African Development Bank Group, is supporting Somalia in addressing recurrent droughts, floods and environmental degradation, according to a press release by UNOPS. Announced on 10 June 2026, the initiative is being implemented together with the Federal Government of Somalia. Known as ‘Activating Climate-Resilient Agricultural Livelihoods in Somalia’ (ACALS), it targets communities in Hirshabelle and Puntland. The project aims to safeguard livelihoods against the growing impacts of climate shocks. It seeks to strengthen resilience and build sustainable livelihoods for rural and agro-pastoral populations.
For many rural and agro-pastoral communities in Somalia, climate shocks continue to disrupt agricultural production, reduce income opportunities and weaken their ability to recover. The Federal Government of Somalia, WFP and UNOPS are working together to respond to these challenges. Financing comes from the African Development Fund, the Bank Group’s concessional window. The initiative reflects a coordinated response involving national and international partners. It is anchored in the country’s ongoing efforts to adapt to changing climatic conditions.
The project will support reliable access to water for crops and livestock. It will strengthen sustainable natural resource management across the targeted areas. ACALS will also reduce communities’ exposure to droughts and floods through climate-resilient infrastructure. These measures will help communities continue to access essential services and livelihood opportunities even during climate shocks. The approach combines infrastructure delivery with longer-term resilience-building.
“Somalia’s livestock and agricultural sectors require targeted interventions like ACALS to build resilience to climate change and improve their ability to adapt to changing climatic conditions,” said Hassan Hussein Mohamed, Somalia’s Minister of Livestock, Forestry and Range.
Marco Selva, Deputy Country Director, WFP Somalia, noted that Somalis continue to face climate shocks, conflict and fragile livelihoods, particularly in rural and agro-pastoral communities.
He added that “ACALS will help families build resilience for long-term food security while supporting broader development efforts.” Pascal Sanginga, East Africa Regional Manager for Agriculture and Agro-Industry, African Development Bank Group, described the initiative as a practical response to the challenges facing the country.
The initiative is described as not only about delivering infrastructure, but about building foundations of resilience. Its design connects immediate livelihood protection with longer-term adaptation goals. By focusing on Hirshabelle and Puntland, the project addresses areas where climate pressures are most acute. The partnership brings together national authorities, UN agencies and a major development financier. Together, they aim to help Somali communities withstand and recover from increasing climate shocks.
