Dr: Mohamed Isak Ibrahim

I was honored to participate in the dissemination event of the Heat-Health Vulnerability and Capacity Assessment (VCA) and the Heat-Health Management and Preparedness Plan (HHMAPPs) Outcomes, organized by International Medical Corps in collaboration with the Ministry of Health & Human Services of Somalia and supported by the Novo Nordisk Foundation.
As Dr. Mohamed Isak Ibrahim, Director of GAP Bridge Institute for Research & Consultancy, I had the privilege of contributing to the discussions and sharing professional insights on strengthening heat-health preparedness, climate resilience, and public health response systems in Somalia.
The event brought together key stakeholders from government institutions, international organizations, healthcare facilities, research institutions, and climate-focused organizations, including:

1. Ministry of Health & Human Services of Somalia.
2. World Health Organization (WHO).
3. Banaadir Hospital.
4. GAP Bridge Institute for Research & Consultancy.
5. International Medical Corps (IMC).
6. Ministry of Environment and Climate Change Somalia.
7. Banadir Regional Administration (BRA).
8. Various organizations working in climate and environmental action.

The discussion emphasized the growing
public health risks associated with extreme heat and climate change particularly for vulnerable populations, and highlighted the importance of evidence-based planning, inter-institutional collaboration, and community awareness to strengthen preparedness and response.
I appreciate the opportunity to engage with partners committed to advancing climate and health research, policy dialogue, and institutional capacity development in Somalia.

EID MUBARAK DHAMAAN MUSLIMIINTA MEELKASTA OO AAD DUNIDA KA JOOGTAAN

For many years, Somalia has relied heavily on foreign aid due to challenges such as low domestic revenue, a weak taxation system, poor infrastructure, and political instability. This dependence has made the economy vulnerable and slowed long-term development. However, history shows that several countries were once in similar situations but managed to overcome aid dependency. For example, Rwanda strengthened its institutions and improved domestic revenue collection, while South Korea transformed its economy through industrialization and strong investment in human capital. Likewise, Vietnam boosted its economy by focusing on export-driven growth and economic reforms. These examples show that with strong governance, economic diversification, and investment in local capacity, countries can gradually move from aid dependence toward sustainable economic independence.