Mogadishu, Somalia – Germany has hosted its first-ever Climate Talk in Mogadishu, bringing together Somali officials, civil society and international partners to explore the critical links between climate change, peace and national security. The event marks a significant diplomatic milestone, as Somalia continues to confront extreme weather shocks that intensify displacement, resource conflict and humanitarian vulnerability.

German Ambassador to Somalia Sebastian Groth underscored the importance of inclusive leadership in climate action.

“Somalia’s communities, women and youth have the best ideas and energy to implement change,” he said, calling for grassroots empowerment over top-down approaches.

Participants discussed how recurring droughts, floods and desertification are fuelling competition over water and grazing land, often triggering inter-clan tensions and weakening recovery from decades of conflict. The talks focused on developing joint frameworks for climate-resilient governance, local conflict mediation and sustainable livelihoods.

Somali representatives welcomed Germany’s initiative, saying it bridges humanitarian response with long-term stability. Organizers hinted that the Climate Talk will become a regular platform for policy dialogue and donor coordination.

With Somalia on the frontline of the global climate crisis, the Mogadishu meeting positions the country not just as a victim of rising temperatures, but as an emerging laboratory for solutions linking resilience and peacebuilding.