By Horn Africa News
Mogadishu – Somalia is confronting an escalating humanitarian emergency, as a deadly combination of extreme drought in the northwest and intensifying conflict in the south and central regions deepens the country’s ongoing crisis, the Somali Disaster Management Agency (SoDMA) has warned.
In Awdal region, located in northwestern Somalia, SoDMA reports the worst drought in years, triggered by repeated failed rainy seasons and soaring temperatures exceeding 40°C. The agency says over 264,000 people urgently require humanitarian assistance, with Borama district particularly hard-hit—98 percent of its population affected.
Severe water shortages, loss of pasture, and a sharp rise in livestock deaths have driven up food prices, leaving many families unable to meet their basic needs. SoDMA is calling for immediate emergency interventions, including food and water supplies, well rehabilitation, and mobile health services, particularly targeting maternal and child care.
At the same time, armed conflict across central and southern Somalia is forcing tens of thousands to flee their homes. Clashes between government forces and the militant group al-Shabaab, along with inter-clan violence, have displaced over 100,000 people since June, according to the agency.
In Hiraan region alone, nearly 85,000 residents have fled key towns such as Mahas, Moqokori, Bulo Burto, and Jalalaqsi, following renewed fighting that has shuttered health centers and damaged infrastructure.
The Gedo region has also witnessed escalating violence. Clashes in Belet Xaawo have displaced more than 38,000 people, including 10,000 who have crossed the border into Kenya seeking safety.
SoDMA reports that over 24,000 people in Gedo are facing crisis or emergency levels of food insecurity, yet aid efforts remain hampered by ongoing insecurity and disrupted transport routes, including suspended flights.
“The situation is critical,” SoDMA said in a statement Tuesday. “We need coordinated action to save lives and protect displaced communities.”
The Somali government says it is working with humanitarian agencies to deliver aid, but SoDMA has urged urgent international support to scale up the response and prevent further deterioration of the crisis.
