Aid Agencies warn of new displacement in Baidoa

Aid agencies have warned that renewed fighting in Baidoa, the interim capital of South West State, could trigger a new wave of displacement.

Officials from several humanitarian organizations said the latest clashes in the city have caused deaths and injuries while increasing fear among civilians caught in the fighting.

The agencies also warned that escalating tensions and intimidation among rival political groups competing for control of Baidoa could further worsen the humanitarian situation.

They said some families have already been displaced from Baidoa, although they did not provide official figures on the number of people affected, where they have sought shelter, or their current living conditions. An assessment of the situation is reportedly underway.

Meanwhile, Baidoa police recently claimed that some of those displaced were wives of Al-Shabaab members, particularly people associated with former South West State President Abdiaziz Laftagareen, whom the police accused of having links to the militant group and causing unrest in the town.

Top government officials have severally warned that the renewed conflict in Baidoa is likely to worsen insecurity, deepen humanitarian needs, and further strain local services.

They said the fighting and resulting displacement can lead to loss of livelihoods, reduced access to food and healthcare, and increased risks for children and vulnerable families, while also diverting critical attention and resources from longer-term recovery efforts.

Mustaqbal