MOGADISHU (Somaliguardian) – Somalia’s government said on Monday that nearly 6 million citizens urgently need humanitarian aid, following the country’s failure to receive the crucial rains expected between October and December. This shortfall in precipitation has triggered an alarming drought, which has affected 13 of Somalia’s 18 regions, exacerbating an already dire situation.
Mohamud Moalim, Director of the Somali Disaster Management Agency (SODMA), reported that of those affected, 3.2 million individuals are suffering from acute conditions. These individuals face a severe lack of access to food, clean water, and medical care. In addition, more than 200,000 people have been displaced from their homes as the drought continues to ravage the landscape, while an estimated 1.4 million livestock have perished, further deepening the humanitarian crisis.
The scope of the disaster has placed immense pressure on both local and international agencies working to provide relief. As the humanitarian needs continue to escalate, Moalim emphasized that immediate funding is essential to prevent further suffering. He underscored the urgent requirement for a minimum of 1.45 million US dollars to address the growing crisis and ensure the delivery of vital assistance to those most affected by the drought.
