Dubai(Mogadishu24)-The President of the Federal Government of Somalia, Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, officially launched the Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) on Friday to address climate change, and adapt climate impacts.

In his speech at COP28, the president announced that Somalia has committed $16 billion through the Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) to respond to climate change.

The NDC targets a 30% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 compared to business-as-usual scenarios.

“We have revised and enhanced our climate ambitions in the Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC), providing clearly defined adaptation and mitigation targets. We now aspire to reduce our emissions by 30% by the end of this decade,” President Hassan said.

He added, “Our climate targets are backed with the highest levels of political commitments. The estimated investments required to achieve these targets exceed our current capacity.”

He highlighted the importance of the NDC in promoting national progress and sustainable development, stating, “Our NDC is not just a plan for climate action but a blueprint for our nation’s sustainable future.”

The President further called for joint global efforts to tackle climate change through climate financing and ensure just, equitable, and meaningful access to climate finance and investment.

The deputy prime minister seconded the president’s announcement to spend an estimated $16 billion through the Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC).

“According to Somalia’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC), we are expected to spend $16 billion in the coming five to six years before 2030. Per year, we are supposed to spend a couple of billion dollars, and we only spend now $300 million on climate financing, which, in reality, is humanitarian financing,” he added.

The Minister of Environment, Hon. Khadija Mohamed Al-Makhzoum, stated that this initiative will address the threats of climate shocks in Somalia.

“Our nation has experienced devastating droughts, followed by floods, and locust invasion. This NDC will address the severe impacts in Somalia and show commitment and our determination to build a climate-resilient future for all Somalis,” Khadija Al-Makhzoum said.

The Nationally Determined Contributions’ document on Somalia’s climate action plan was first submitted in 2015 and has since undergone thorough revisions.

The NDC also contains comprehensive strategies in key sectors such as agriculture, energy, forestry, and water resource management, with a strong emphasis on both adaptation and mitigation measures.

It will be achieved through initiatives such as promoting renewable energy, sustainable land management, and enhancing the resilience of vulnerable communities.

The Nationally Determined Contributions also outline the need for substantial international support, including finance, technology transfer, and capacity building, to achieve these targets.

The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) representative commended Somalia for its leadership and commitment, especially given its status as a developing country with limited resources.

The launch event in Dubai was attended by international dignitaries, climate activists, and representatives from various global organizations who applauded Somalia’s efforts.