ICE Annual Report 2023
The Institute of Climate and Environment (ICE), established by SIMAD University, has solidified its position as Somalia’s premier environmental think tank. The 2023 Annual Report encapsulates a year of groundbreaking achievements and impactful initiatives, showcasing ICE’s unwavering commitment to addressing climate, environmental, and developmental challenges in Somalia and beyond.
Key Highlights of 2023:
1. Inaugural Milestones:
– Officially launched on November 6, 2023, ICE initiated its journey with a vibrant team and strategic vision, gaining recognition as a pivotal institution in Somalia’s climate action landscape.
– Partnerships forged with Somalia’s Ministry of Environment and Climate Change and UNSOM set the stage for transformative collaborations.
2. Research and Knowledge Dissemination:
– Seven pivotal studies were published exploring the interplay between climate change, governance, and socio-economic factors in Somalia.
– Introduced the Climate Action Watch Portal, a GIS-based tool to monitor environmental changes and facilitate data-driven decisions.
3. Community Engagement:
– Rolled out awareness campaigns like Climate Essentials, producing over 15 educative videos and launching the Climate Warriors Podcast to demystify climate issues for local communities.
– Established the Green Champions, empowering a cohort of senior students to champion environmental sustainability.
4. Events and Capacity Building:
– Hosted impactful events such as the Hack the Plastics Challenge, Mogadishu Environmental Summit, and Climate Change Symposium for Youth and Children, addressing critical issues like plastic pollution, water management, and youth-led climate activism.
– Organized training and workshops to enhance skills in sustainable development, GIS mapping, and disaster risk management.
5. Global Representation:
– Actively participated in international forums, including the African Climate Summit, UN Least Developed Countries Conference, and COP28, amplifying Somalia’s voice on the global stage.
Looking Ahead: In 2024, ICE aims to deepen its impact by aligning with Somalia’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), formulating a National Adaptation Plan, and fostering local implementation of the SDGs. The institute is poised to catalyze change through strategic partnerships, innovative research, and inclusive community initiatives.
