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Event Report: “Planet or Make Your City Green” – Hirshabelle, Jowhar

Event Title: Planet or Make Your City Green
Date: February 12, 2024
Venue: Jowhar, Hirshabelle State, Somalia
Organizer: Somali Environmental Development Organization (SEDO)
Participants: Local government officials, environmental activists, community members, youth groups, local NGOs

Introduction

On February 12, 2024, the Somali Environmental Development Organization (SEDO) held the “Planet or Make Your City Green” event in Jowhar, Hirshabelle State. This initiative aimed at encouraging the greening of urban spaces while raising awareness on the importance of environmental sustainability. The event focused on improving local urban infrastructure by promoting tree planting, environmental cleanliness, and the adoption of climate-resilient urban practices.

Objectives of the Event

The key goals of the event were to:

1. Raise awareness about the environmental benefits of urban greening.
2. Encourage community participation in tree-planting and urban sustainability initiatives.
3. Promote sustainable urban practices as part of broader efforts to combat climate change in Hirshabelle State.
4. Foster partnerships among local government, civil society, and communities to enhance green spaces in Jowhar.

Key Activities

1. Tree-Planting Ceremony

The central activity of the event was a large-scale tree-planting ceremony in Jowhar. Participants, including local residents, government officials, and youth groups, gathered to plant trees in key urban areas to enhance the city’s green cover.

• Species planted: Drought-resistant trees such as Acacia and Neem, chosen for their ability to thrive in the region’s arid climate.
• Community involvement: Local schoolchildren and youth groups played a leading role in the tree-planting efforts, highlighting the importance of youth engagement in sustainability.

2. Environmental Awareness Campaign

SEDO organized workshops and awareness sessions, educating participants on the importance of urban greenery for air quality improvement, temperature regulation, and overall climate resilience. Key topics included:

• The role of trees in mitigating urban heat and improving public health.
• The connection between green spaces and reduced flooding risks in urban areas.
• The importance of community-driven efforts in maintaining a sustainable environment.

3. Urban Cleanliness Initiative

In addition to tree planting, a citywide cleanliness campaign was launched, where participants worked to clear public spaces of litter and promote proper waste management. SEDO distributed educational materials encouraging sustainable waste disposal practices, recycling, and reducing plastic usage.

Outcomes and Achievements

1. Increased Green Space: Hundreds of trees were planted throughout Jowhar, marking the beginning of efforts to enhance the city’s green infrastructure and combat the impacts of climate change.
2. Community Engagement: The event successfully mobilized local residents, especially youth, to take an active role in greening their city, fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility.
3. Raised Awareness: Through environmental education and workshops, participants gained a deeper understanding of how urban greening can contribute to climate resilience, improved health, and disaster risk reduction.
4. Improved Urban Cleanliness: The cleanliness campaign contributed to a cleaner, healthier urban environment, and raised awareness of the importance of proper waste management.

Recommendations and Next Steps

1. Continued Tree-Planting Programs:SEDO plans to follow up with additional tree-planting initiatives in Jowhar and expand the program to other urban areas across Hirshabelle State.
2. Sustained Community Involvement:There is a need to maintain public engagement through regular urban greening and cleanliness drives, ensuring that local communities continue to lead these efforts.
3. Partnerships for Sustainability:SEDO will seek further collaboration with local authorities, businesses, and international donors to secure funding and resources for long-term urban sustainability programs in Jowhar.
4. Education and Advocacy:SEDO aims to build on the momentum of the event by launching public education campaigns on the environmental and social benefits of green urban spaces.

Conclusion

The “Planet or Make Your City Green” event in Jowhar marked a significant step toward improving urban environmental sustainability in Hirshabelle State. By involving the community in tree planting, urban cleanliness, and environmental education, the event showcased the potential of local initiatives to create greener, more resilient urban areas. With sustained efforts and partnerships, Jowhar is on the path to becoming a model for climate-smart urban development in Somalia