November ,2023

DANWADAAG organized a study tour to Turkey for senior officials from key DRM stakeholders in Somaliland. The delegation comprised the Mayors of Hargeisa and Burao, the Chairman of the National Disaster Preparedness and Food Reserve (NADFOR), and the Executive Director of the Association of Somaliland Local Governments (ALGASL).

The primary objective of the study tour was to strengthen the expertise and knowledge base of senior officials in disaster risk management through immersive experiences and interactions with counterparts in Turkey. The delegation sought to gain insights and exchange best practices with Turkish agencies actively engaged in DRM initiatives. The weeklong exposure visits to Turkey promised an enriching journey characterized by dialogue, learning, and the cultivation of invaluable connections.

Upon arriving in Turkey, the delegation embarked on a prearranged itinerary designed to optimize their exposure to diverse facets of DRM practices and policies. The itinerary included a series of meetings and engagements with key stakeholders and institutions renowned for their contributions to disaster risk management.

One of the notable highlights of the study tour was the delegation's meeting with the Mayor of Keçiören, located in the vibrant city of Ankara. The exchange provided a platform for dialogue and knowledge sharing, allowing participants to gain insights into the operational strategies and challenges encountered in managing disaster risks at the municipal level. The Mayor of Keçiören offered firsthand perspectives and lessons learned from Turkey's experiences, enriching the discourse with practical insights and innovative approaches.

Furthermore, the delegation had the privilege of engaging with Turkey's International Development Agency, TIKKA, a key entity spearheading humanitarian and development endeavors worldwide. The exchange underscored the significance of international cooperation and solidarity in building resilient communities and mitigating the impact of disasters.

As the delegation returned to Somaliland, they carried with them a wealth of insights, perspectives, and actionable strategies collected from their transformative journey to Turkey. Armed with newfound knowledge and strengthened networks, the senior officials were poised to spearhead initiatives that would enhance Somaliland's resilience to disasters, safeguarding lives, livelihoods, and the fabric of communities for generations to come. The study tour stood as a testament to the power of collaboration, innovation, and collective action in shaping a more resilient and sustainable future for all.

ALGASL and VNG International