Mowlid Hassan

Director, Biodiversity Development & Conservation Directorate

Biodiversity Development & Conservation Directorate

The Biodiversity Development and Conservation Directorate is responsible for the sustainable management, development, and conservation of biodiversity across the Somali Regional State. The directorate works to protect plant and animal species, conserve ecosystem diversity, and ensure the sustainable use of biological resources while safeguarding the region’s natural heritage for present and future generations.

To achieve these objectives, the directorate promotes the conservation of native plant species and wildlife, protects endangered species, and supports healthy ecosystems that provide essential environmental services such as soil protection, water regulation, and climate resilience. The directorate also enforces biodiversity-related laws and regulations to combat illegal activities, including poaching, illegal trade, and habitat destruction.

In addition, the directorate strengthens community engagement, awareness, and institutional collaboration to promote integrated biodiversity management. Through policy development, capacity building, and partnerships with relevant stakeholders, it plays a vital role in maintaining ecological balance and supporting sustainable development across the region.

Mandate & Legal Framework

Defining the Directorate’s mandate, legal foundation, and institutional responsibilities in biodiversity conservation.

The Biodiversity Development & Conservation Directorate is responsible for the sustainable management, development, and conservation of biodiversity across the Somali Regional State, including protection of species and ecosystems.

The directorate operates under national and regional environmental and biodiversity laws, as well as relevant international conventions, which guide conservation, enforcement, and sustainable resource use.

Key responsibilities include biodiversity conservation, wildlife protection, ecosystem management, law enforcement, and prevention of illegal activities such as poaching and habitat destruction.

The directorate implements conservation through coordinated planning, community engagement, capacity building, research, and partnerships with relevant institutions and stakeholders.

Biodiversity Conservation Projects and Initiatives

Supporting ecosystem conservation, wildlife protection, community awareness, and biodiversity management across the Somali Regional State.

Ecosystem Mapping in Qarijigood Mountains (Nogob Zone)

This initiative focuses on mapping ecosystems and assessing biodiversity in the Qarijigood mountain area of Nogob Zone. It collects updated ecological data and supports the development of targeted conservation and ecosystem management action plans.

LICIT Project Trainings and Community Awareness in S.R.S

This initiative highlights key LICIT project achievements across the Somali Regional State, focusing on capacity-building trainings, stakeholder workshops, and community awareness activities that support collaboration and prevent illegal wildlife trade.

Combating Illegal Wildlife Trade and Poaching through Community Awareness

This initiative addresses illegal wildlife trade and poaching in selected zones of the Somali Regional State. Through community awareness and local coordination, it aims to protect endangered species and reduce threats to local ecosystems.

Cheetah Survey and Monitoring Training

This activity focuses on building technical capacity for cheetah survey and monitoring through targeted trainings and workshops. It supports conservation efforts by improving data collection, monitoring practices, and awareness on cheetah protection.

Countering Cheetah Trafficking Initiative

This initiative addresses illegal cheetah trafficking from the Horn of Africa through collaboration with regional and international partners. It aims to strengthen enforcement, coordination, and awareness to reduce wildlife trafficking.

Liben Lark Conservation and Habitat Protection

This initiative focuses on conserving the Liben Lark and protecting its natural habitat in the Somali Regional State. It supports biodiversity conservation through habitat protection, awareness, and ecosystem management efforts.

Wildlife of the Somali Regional State

Iconic wildlife species that reflect the unique biodiversity and natural heritage of the Somali Regional State.

Cheetah

A vulnerable species adapted to open landscapes, threatened by habitat loss.

Liben Lark

A critically endangered endemic bird found only in Somali Region grasslands

Elephant

A keystone species vital to ecosystem balance, threatened by poaching. somali garee

Wildlife Profiles

Learn more about key wildlife species found in the Somali Regional State.

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