Community Action and Adaptation Plans in Baidoa villages in Somalia
In the heart of Baidoa, Somalia, where droughts, erratic rainfall, and land degradation continuously threaten livelihoods, COOPI – Cooperazione Internazionale has been working with rural and pre-urban villages to strengthen resilience, with the project "Water to Resilience Gains in Somalia 2 Year Program" in collaboration with SomReP and funded by Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC). Against a backdrop of climate uncertainty and fragile community systems, 11 villages came together to participate in a Community Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) training.
Represents community values
The CAAP equipped local committees with the knowledge and skills to prepare for climate risks. It also brought together diverse community representatives to design tailored solutions.
The plan also developed Early Warning System (EWS) committees that relied on traditional methods such as observing natural indicators (animal behavior, tree flowering, wind direction, and water levels) and drawing on elders’ councils to interpret seasonal patterns,
Addresses challenges
Action plans focused on water harvesting and conservation, soil rehabilitation and agroforestry, establishment of early warning systems, and community environmental awareness campaigns.
Adequately assess vulnerability
Communities in Baidoa faced increasing climate shocks without adequate tools or plans to respond. Capacity gaps, weak coordination, the lack of contingency plans and limited opportunities for communities to voice their own priorities created further vulnerability, especially among women, youth, and marginalized groups.
Demonstrates conflict resolution
Against a backdrop of climate uncertainty and fragile community systems, the project brought together 11 villages to participate in a Community Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP) training and improve their cohesion and understanding of joint action plans in addressing issues.
Meets the community’s expectations and needs
COOPI facilitated a comprehensive training on climate risk assessment, contingency planning, and adaptation strategies. Over 60 participants attended, representing: Village Development Committees, Natural Resource Management (NRM) Committees, and CAAP Committees dedicated to drafting local adaptation plans
Contributes to the community’s adaptive capacity
The committees established community-led tree nurseries and plant at least 1,500 drought-resistant trees in the planting season. The initiative is complemented by the construction of soil bunds and the adoption of contour farming practices to reduce erosion and enhance soil fertility.