Belem, Brazil — At the ongoing COP30 climate summit, Somalia is emerging as a proactive voice on the global stage, highlighting its commitment to tackling climate change despite ongoing development challenges. Somali negotiator Mohamed A. Ahmed participated in a critical dialogue at the Bangladesh Pavilion focused on Article 6 of the Paris Agreement, which governs international cooperation and carbon markets.

Somalia’s delegation emphasized the nation’s progress on its third Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC 3.0) and its National Adaptation Plan (NAP), signaling an integrated approach to both mitigation and adaptation strategies. The discussion also stressed the value of Article 6.8, which encourages non-market approaches, highlighting Somalia’s efforts to foster knowledge sharing and strengthen environmental governance in a region highly vulnerable to climate shocks.

The country has faced successive droughts, erratic rainfall, and rising temperatures that threaten livelihoods, food security, and urban infrastructure. By actively engaging in international mechanisms, Somalia aims to secure technical support, climate finance, and collaborative partnerships to implement its climate policies effectively.

Experts note that Somalia’s participation underscores a broader shift in African climate diplomacy, where fragile states are increasingly asserting leadership in climate-security integration. For Somalia, the COP30 engagement reflects a determination to transform climate challenges into opportunities for sustainable development, resilience, and regional cooperation.

The dialogue at COP30 signals a turning point for Somalia, positioning the nation not merely as a recipient of aid, but as a strategic partner in shaping practical, collaborative climate solutions across Africa.