Somali Observatory for Humanitarian Affairs It is a specialized, independent, non-profit media network that observes and follows up the Somali humanitarian scene
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MOGADISHU / WASHINGTON – Amidst a profound humanitarian crisis, UN agencies have issued a resounding warning regarding the situation in Somalia, confirming that the nation is confronting an escalating and existential emergency due to the relentless extreme drought, following a devastating failure of four consecutive rainy seasons. This ongoing climate catastrophe exposes millions of Somalis to the chronic risk of catastrophic hunger and mass displacement, necessitating exceptional international intervention.
In a proactive step to counter the rapid deterioration, the Federal Government of Somalia appealed to the Global Conscience, demanding the provision of immediate relief aid as humanitarian conditions continue to worsen across all regions. The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) reported that this appeal aims to support those affected in the northern, central, and southern areas.
The Puntland region stands out as the most critically affected, where official estimates indicate that nearly one million individuals are in urgent need of support, including approximately 130,000 people who require life-saving assistance immediately.
Concerns intensified following the UN assessment mission report to the Bari and Nugal regions, which confirmed severe and chronic shortages in water and food sources. Furthermore, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) warned that the continuation of drought waves coupled with extreme heat will inevitably lead to the paralysis of water infrastructure and the destruction of rangelands, putting the future of millions of pastoralists and farmers at risk.
The current drought wave is considered the most severe and protracted in the Horn of Africa in decades, linked to the La Niña phenomenon which has negatively impacted rainfall patterns. Approximately 70% of Somalis rely on agriculture and pastoralism. The drought has caused the massive loss of livestock and crop failure, leading to the destruction of livelihoods and driving hundreds of thousands into Internal Displacement Camps (IDPs). The resulting overcrowding exacerbates health and security challenges across the country
