- Urgency level : High
- Somalia
- Climate crisis
- Food insecurity
Somalia is experiencing a further escalation of the food crisis due to the combined effects of drought, conflict, displacement and the collapse of humanitarian funding. Around six million people are facing acute food insecurity, including nearly two million at emergency levels. In the Burhakaba district, the rapid deterioration in living conditions now poses a risk of famine.
« In the Burhakaba district, the rapid deterioration in living conditions is now raising the spectre of famine »
More than 1.8 million children are suffering from acute malnutrition, whilst cuts to aid are depriving a growing proportion of the population of food, healthcare and safe drinking water. Despite the scale of the needs, the World Food Programme is only able to reach a small proportion of those requiring assistance. Households are using up their reserves, cutting back on meals, selling their productive assets or leaving their communities in search of safer conditions.
The response must combine immediate assistance with the strengthening of national capacities. Support for agriculture, livestock farming, local markets, social protection schemes and sustainable water management is essential to reduce vulnerability to future shocks. Without sustainable investment in livelihoods and climate adaptation, every drought will continue to undermine food security, human development and the stability of communities.