Burning Ground: Tackling Climate Change and Conflict in South-central Somalia

Somalia is vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, in part because of the enduring effects of over three decades of violent conflict. There is an urgent need for responses that address the effects of both issues in tandem. This report presents findings from two projects led by the International Organization for Migration in Somalia that exemplify how climate action can be used as a platform for reducing violent conflict over natural resources; fostering cross-clan collaboration on climate-smart infrastructure and nature-based solutions; and forging or strengthening relationships between formal authorities and rural communities. The projects also highlighted challenges and associated trade-offs, including balancing the interests of humans and nature in project design, ensuring political sustainability of project outcomes and evaluating the long-term impacts of project activities. The report offers lessons for climate action and peacebuilding in Somalia and in other fragile and conflict-affected areas.