In preparation for the El Niño conditions that are expected to trigger river flooding along the Juba and Shabelle rivers in Somalia, the Somali Red Crescent Society (SRCS) is training 72 participants, including 60 local community volunteers. Supported by the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), the hands-on training ensures participants have essential skills needed to respond during flood emergencies. In 2023, when similar conditions hit the country, the SRCS boat teams played a key role in rescue efforts in areas inundated by floodwaters. The trainings are being held in flood-prone areas, including Bardere, Jowhar, Beletweyne and Kismayo. From theory to hands-on practice, this preparation will ensure teams are ready to respond effectively should the floods materialize. Below are images taken during the training in Jowhar.
With the Shabelle River as their training ground, participants take turns learning steering techniques, turning in circles and executing controlled reversing.
Class in session! Volunteers first went through the theory before taking to the water to put their learning into practice. Lessons covered essential communication techniques, such as using hand signals to communicate over roaring boat engines.
A trainer demonstrates how to mount an engine onto a boat before running through pre-departure safety checks and preparing the boat and crew.
Trainees learnt about the engine’s kill switch, a vital safety cord that instantly stops the engine in case of an emergency.
A group photo with the Jowhar team, fully prepared for flood emergencies during the upcoming rainy season. A total of 72 participants completed the training, including 60 community volunteers. Equipped with nine boats spread across flood prone areas, the SRCS stands ready to respond.