Clashes in Somalia’s Southwest State, particularly around Baidoa, have forced approximately 50,000 people to flee their homes, the United Nations has warned. The newly displaced include primarily women, children, older people, and persons with disabilities, many of whom were already vulnerable due to previous displacement and the severe drought affecting the region. About 30% of those affected were already living in existing displacement sites, meaning the new arrivals are adding pressure to an already fragile humanitarian situation.
Baidoa, the regional capital, already hosts around 430,000 internally displaced people, most of whom rely on humanitarian aid for food, water, shelter, and medical care. The influx of new arrivals risks overwhelming local services, creating urgent challenges for humanitarian organizations attempting to provide adequate support. Displaced families are exposed to heightened protection risks, including gender-based violence, exploitation, and limited access to essential services.
The conflict has also disrupted local markets, schools, and health facilities, further worsening living conditions. Many families have been forced to leave behind personal belongings, livestock, and sources of income, making recovery even more difficult. Humanitarian actors warn that without rapid assistance, malnutrition, disease outbreaks, and further displacement could escalate in the coming weeks.
George Conway, UN Humanitarian Coordinator for Somalia, urged all parties to protect civilians, ensure safe and unhindered humanitarian access, and facilitate the safe return of displaced families. He called for immediate de-escalation of the conflict and stressed the importance of creating conditions that allow families to return to their homes safely and with dignity. Conway warned that without urgent intervention, conditions in Baidoa could deteriorate further, deepening the humanitarian crisis.
The displacement highlights Somalia’s ongoing vulnerability to political tensions, insecurity, recurring drought, and climate shocks. The combination of armed conflict and environmental stress continues to strain local communities and urban centers like Baidoa, underscoring the urgent need for coordinated humanitarian and protection efforts.
