UPDF Steps-up Disaster Management Efforts Amidst Looming Heavy Rains In Somalia

The Joint Forces of the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) led by the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces have opened up a blocked drainage system in Bulo Marer, Somalia in an effort to minimize the effects of the looming heavy rains.

 

The support in form of a bulldozer that was extended to the district disaster management committee is due to the expected el-nino rains in the Lower Shabelle region.

 

On 18^th October 2023, the joint district disaster management committee, resolved, as a matter of urgency, to open up water channels before the start of the rains and sought support from the ATMIS forces and other humanitarian agencies.

 

Mr. Muhidin Kharif Alio, the Deputy District Commissioner and head of the district disaster management committee, commended ATMIS’s speedy response to their call. “This assistance has come at the right time before water burst channels to cause floods. It will help in improving the drainage system,” said Muhidin Alio.

 

Maj Don Naijuka, said that there was a need to open up the drainage channels early enough before the start of heavy rains so that disposables and silt are cleared to enable floodwaters to move. Maj Naijuka explained, “Not having proper drainage system in place will result in flooding of the low-lying areas thereby causing property damage and the resultant health risks. That is why we have come in to mitigate that situation.”

 

Meanwhile, joint forces of ATMIS and Somali Security Forces supported by the community reopened water collection points, wells and dams within Bulo Marer town. They also cleared the surrounding bushes and collected rubbish in order to avert waterborne disasters.