Burao Municipality Holds Workshop on Risk Mapping and Hazard Identification
Burao, Somaliland
January 16, 2025 – The Association of Local Government Authorities of Somaliland (ALGASL), in collaboration with VNG International, officially launched a workshop focused on risk mapping and hazard identification across Burao District.
The event, opened by Mr. Amin Abdillahi Yasin, Secretary of Burao Municipality, brought together district commissioners, department heads, and officers from the Disaster Risk Management (DRM) units. The workshop aimed to review and validate newly developed risk maps, identify vulnerable areas, and strengthen the municipality’s capacity to plan for and respond to urban risks.
The initiative is part of the DANWADAAG Project, which supports Somaliland’s local governments in building DRM systems and equipping municipalities with tools to effectively address disaster risks.
Speaking at the event, Mr. Mohamed Abdi of VNG International highlighted the project’s role in advancing DRM structures at the municipal level and emphasized the need for local leadership in disaster preparedness.
Mr. Omar Abdillahi Ali presented findings from a three-week mapping exercise, which identified hazard-prone areas across all neighborhoods of Burao. He stressed the importance of integrating this data into decision-making and urban planning processes.
In his keynote address, Secretary Amin Abdillahi Yasin expressed gratitude to VNG International, ALGASL, and technical experts involved in the initiative. He underscored the importance of using risk data to guide municipal planning and called on department leaders to prioritize disaster preparedness.
Participants spent the workshop reviewing maps and datasets, discussing strategies for disaster prevention and effective response. The event underscored that disaster risk management relies on strong coordination, collaboration, and evidence-based planning to minimize impacts and build resilient communities.
The DANWADAAG Project continues to strengthen the technical and operational capacities of Somaliland’s municipalities, fostering cooperation between government institutions and communities to enhance disaster preparedness and resilience.
Amani Yusuf Yonis
Communication Officer
Association of Local Government Authorities of Somaliland (ALGASL)
