Resilience Program

Punt Crops Resilience Program is an initiative born out of the devastating 2011 Tsunami disaster that struck Somalia, particularly the Puntland region. The aftermath of the disaster highlighted the urgent need for effective disaster planning and preparation. As a response, the Somali Diaspora in Minnesota and other regions rallied to provide assistance to the affected communities facing challenges such as marginal rainfall, stronger winds, and environmental hazards exacerbated by climate change.

One of the major concerns identified was the influx of foreign toxic waste following the disaster, which led to the eruption of new diseases in the local communities. This sparked a movement to mobilize various focus groups, such as Punt Crops, to monitor and respond to the situation. Additionally, flash floods, a recurring annual threat, posed significant risks to agriculture and displaced thousands of people in different regions of Somalia.

The goal of Punt Crops Resilience Program is to address these challenges by advocating for sustainable practices, such as the use of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) and Solar Steam Cooking Energy as alternative energy sources to reduce deforestation and soil erosion. Furthermore, the program aims to create awareness about environmental protection and sustainable land management. It also seeks to engage with government authorities and organizations to address issues related to environmental risk mitigation and trade.

The livelihood sector is identified as a key player in reducing poverty and improving the lives of people in Somalia. However, challenges such as insufficient resources and environmental problems, including critical drought and unplanned exploitation of natural resources, hinder the sector's development and potential.

Water scarcity and malfunctioning water management infrastructure exacerbate the chronic food insecurity crisis in Somalia, making it a pressing issue that requires attention. The Resilience Program recognizes the multitude of factors contributing to environmental hazards in Somalia, including deforestation for charcoal production, unregulated settlements, soil erosion, and overgrazing.

In addressing these challenges, Punt Crops Resilience Program advocates for improved natural resource management, participatory rangeland management, and cash-for-work projects aimed at reclaiming and rehabilitating eroded land to conserve soil and water. Through these initiatives, the Resilience Program aims to build a more sustainable and resilient future for the communities in Somalia.