The United Kingdom has pledged £5 million to support Somalia’s preparations for anticipated El Niño-related flooding during the coming Deyr rainy season, amid warnings that up to 3.5 million people could be affected.
The funding was announced at the Country Humanitarian Forum in Mogadishu and will support early action and emergency preparedness ahead of the expected heavy rains.
The package will help provide mobile health services, water and sanitation support, protection programmes and livelihood assistance for communities vulnerable to flooding.
Displaced families and communities living in flood-prone areas are expected to be among the main beneficiaries, including populations in areas such as Jowhar and Beletweyne.
The funding comes amid growing concerns over the potential humanitarian impact of heavy rains and flooding during the Deyr season. Humanitarian agencies have warned that flooding could cause displacement, damage infrastructure and disrupt access to essential services.
The UK support is intended to enable humanitarian organisations and local authorities to act before severe flooding occurs, including through early and anticipatory measures.
The assistance forms part of wider international efforts to strengthen Somalia’s preparedness for climate-related shocks and protect vulnerable communities during the upcoming rainy season.
Mustaqbal
