Nearly 6.5 million people in Somalia face acute hunger, while more than 1.8 million children are at risk of acute malnutrition, according to a joint report by the Somali government and UN agencies.
The Food Security Index (IPC) predicts that a third of the country’s population will reach a critical level by March 2026, with nearly two million people in “emergency” situations (IPC Level 4). The worsening drought has caused crop failures, widespread livestock losses, and widespread displacement.
The humanitarian coordinator, George Conway, highlighted the urgency of the situation, noting that water prices have skyrocketed and food supplies are dwindling, while aid funding is tight. Current aid is limited, forcing aid agencies to reduce food aid and reduce life-saving services related to food, nutrition, health, water and sanitation.
While the expected Gu rains between April and June may bring some relief, the crisis is expected to continue until March, with food security and malnutrition levels worsening.
Crop yields, particularly in southern Somalia, have fallen by 83 percent of the long-term average, while animal pregnancy and birth rates are significantly below normal.
The Somali Disaster Management Authority said climate change, displacement, and reduced aid funding were pushing vulnerable communities beyond their capacity to cope, and called for urgent international support.
The health situation of children remains critical, with limited health services and outbreaks of diseases such as cholera, measles and diphtheria affecting the southern and central regions of the country. While humanitarian agencies have the expertise to respond effectively, they face challenges related to a lack of funding.
The Somali government and UN agencies have called for urgent multifaceted measures, including scaling up food assistance, preventing and treating malnutrition, protecting vulnerable communities, and strengthening early warning systems.
To continue life-saving assistance in Somalia through 2026, $852 million is needed. Funding is said to be essential to prevent further deterioration, protect vulnerable people, and preserve gains in humanitarian responses.
