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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NEW YORK — The United Nations confirmed that the drought crisis in the Federal Republic of Somalia is now affecting more than 4.6 million people—approximately a quarter of the total population—amid warnings of severe humanitarian and social repercussions due to the continued scarcity of essential resources.
According to the Xinhua News Agency, quoting Stephane Dujarric, Spokesperson for the UN Secretary-General, harsh climatic conditions have displaced at least 120,000 people over the past three months. This displacement is driven by soaring water prices, food shortages, and the collapse of livestock-dependent livelihoods.
Xinhua reported that the crisis has also severely impacted the education sector, with more than 75,000 students forced to drop out of school nationwide. The UN spokesperson warned that the upcoming dry season (January–March) could further intensify food insecurity, emphasizing that the next four months will be critical in preventing loss of life, as rains are not expected until next April.
Reports cited by the Xinhua News Agency indicated that the UN and its partners are mobilizing an emergency response across the water, food, health, and shelter sectors. It noted that while the UN Central Emergency Response Fund allocated $10 million to support relief efforts, there remains an urgent need for additional international support to bridge significant funding gaps.
