Abass Kassim is a Senior Advisor for Berghof Foundation's Somalia program, where he advises on the implementation of environmental peacebuilding initiatives in the country. Abass has previously managed multiple climate security projects aimed at amplifying the nexus between climate change and conflicts at the community level and among state and federal-level policymakers. He also managed conflict transformation projects aimed at enhancing social cohesion among communities in Galmudug State and those in Hirshabelle State.

In addition, he co-managed projects that supported mediation and dialogue processes by establishing an “Insider Peacebuilders Network" and implementing large community dialogues. Abass has led a comprehensive analysis of the conflict dynamics in both states, as well as research aimed at generating Climate Security Action Plans (CSAPs) in districts severely impacted by climate change. Prior to joining Berghof Foundation, Abass worked for Heritage Institute and National Democratic Institute (NDI).

Session: De-risking resilience: Best practices and lessons learnt to build sustainable peace