UN warns of growing humanitarian crisis in Somalia as millions require urgent assistance

The United Nations has issued an urgent appeal for increased humanitarian support for Somalia, warning that drought, conflict, flooding, and funding shortages have left millions of people in need of essential assistance.

The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) said hundreds of thousands of Somalis require immediate support, including access to food, clean water, and basic services.

According to OCHA, more than 570,000 people are currently in need of water assistance, while approximately 1.5 million people require food aid. The agency also warned that more than 400,000 children are suffering from acute malnutrition.

The humanitarian situation has been worsened by repeated climate shocks, including prolonged drought and devastating floods, alongside insecurity and limited funding for relief operations.

The UN has increased emergency funding for Buurhakaba district, which remains at risk of famine, to support vulnerable communities facing severe food insecurity.

Humanitarian agencies have called for greater international support to prevent further deterioration of the crisis and ensure that affected populations receive lifesaving assistance.

Mustaqbal