The initiative is part of the multi-partner JOSP funded by the British Embassy in Mogadishu and the UN Peacebuilding Fund (UNPBF)

Mogadishu, Somalia - The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and USAID have announced the signing of the USD 25 million TRANSFORM project, a key component of the broader multi-partner Johwar Offstream Storage Programme (JOSP). 

The TRANSFORM project aims to improve food security and resilience in Somalia by rehabilitating critical infrastructure and promoting climate smart agriculture for smallholder farmers in Jowhar. The project will support Somali farmers with flood protection and reliable irrigation, helping them to use their land more productively and sustainably. This effort includes developing a comprehensive JOSP governance plan, conducting environmental and social safeguarding studies, as well as addressing conflict mitigation, land tenure management, and durable solutions for displaced populations.

The project signing comes on the background of the official JOSP launch in Johwar on 6 June 2024, which was attended by the Deputy Prime Minister, the President of Hirshabelle, the Federal Minister of Agriculture and Irrigation and the Federal Minister of Energy and Water Resources.

In addition to USAID’s investment, the British Embassy in Mogadishu, the UN Peacebuilding Fund (UNPBF) and the planned contribution from the Somalia Joint Fund (SJF) will provide additional resources for this transformative initiative.

JOSP is a multi-partner, multi-year programme designed to mitigate drought and floods and boost agricultural production for sustained food security and climate resilience along the Shabelle River in southern Somalia. It is a collaborative effort between the government of Somalia, FAO, and its UN partners – the International Organization for Migration (IOM), the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), the United Nations Settlement Programme (UN Habitat) and the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO).

TRANSFORM specifically contributes to three of JOSP's objectives: the rehabilitation of core infrastructure, climate-smart agriculture and value chain development, and water resource management, governance, and community support.

Speaking on behalf of USAID, Sheri-Nouane Duncan-Jones, the Mission Director, said “I’m delighted to announce the U.S. Government's investment to Somalia to rehabilitate the Jowhar Canal irrigation infrastructure. This commitment marks a significant step towards achieving food security and flood protection for marginalized communities in Middle and Lower Shabelle. The Jowhar Canal, once a vital lifeline for Somalia's agricultural self-sufficiency, fell into disrepair during the civil war. Today, we embark on a journey to restore its former glory, ensuring that Somalia can once again thrive through sustainable agriculture and resilient infrastructure. Together, we will foster a brighter future for all Somalis."

Speaking after the signing, FAO Country Representative, Etienne Peterschmitt welcomed this contribution from USAID, and highlighted its significance in contributing to enhanced food security and resilience for communities along the Shabelle River. “This collaborative model not only enhances the effectiveness of individual initiatives but also builds a sense of shared responsibility and collective action for the transformation of Somalia’s food system. It ensures that the interventions are well-coordinated and sustainable, addressing the multifaceted challenges faced by vulnerable communities in Somalia’’, said the Country Representative.

Media contact:

Masimba. Nyamanhindi 

Communications Specialist 

FAO Somalia 

[email protected] 

@faosomalia