Mogadishu, Somalia – In a bold step to confront climate change and chronic food insecurity, Somalia has launched an IoT-based smart agriculture training program aimed at equipping farmers and youth with modern digital farming tools.

Led by the Ministry of Agriculture, the program integrates sensor technology, real-time data, and climate-adaptive practices to boost productivity in drought-prone regions. Farmers will learn to use soil moisture sensors, smart irrigation systems, and weather-linked crop monitoring to manage increasingly erratic climate patterns.

“Climate change is not a future threat — it’s already devastating our rural communities,” said Agriculture Minister Mohamed Abdi Hayir Maareeye while adding that the initiative will help farmers to adapt, innovate, and survive.

The program’s first phase targets over 500 participants across agricultural hubs like Baidoa, Afgoye, and Beletweyne. Special focus is placed on youth and women, who are often excluded from conventional farming programs.

Supported by partners including the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) and World Bank, the training is part of Somalia’s broader push to build climate resilience through technology and sustainable development. Officials plan to scale it nationwide by 2026 as part of the National Development Plan.