Somalia's drought leaves 6.5 million on brink of hunger crisis, says ICRC
According to the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), Somalia is facing a severe humanitarian crisis, with 6.5 million people experiencing acute hunger due to prolonged drought conditions.
According to the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), Somalia is facing a severe humanitarian crisis, with 6.5 million people experiencing acute hunger due to prolonged drought conditions.
In the affected regions, the mortality of livestock is severely impacting food sources and income for families. Abdulkadir Mohamed Farah, a herder from Galmudug, reports a significant loss of livestock, with 90% of his goats and two-thirds of his camels dying within the past year.
The failure of two consecutive rainy seasons has raised concerns about a potential recurrence of the severe hunger crisis seen in 2022. As livestock perish and water sources deplete, many families are relocating to displacement camps or urban areas in search of resources.
According to the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), Somalia is facing a severe humanitarian crisis, with 6.5 million people experiencing acute hunger due to prolonged drought conditions.
Mohamed Sheikh, an ICRC officer in Galmudug, highlights that both drought and conflict are driving displacement. He underscores the urgency of the situation, noting that increased needs will become critical if rains do not arrive soon.
Reduction in aid has exacerbated the crisis, leading to the closure of essential programs that provide food, water, healthcare, and livelihood support. The ICRC warns that without immediate rainfall and increased funding, millions may face emergency levels of hunger.
Based on reporting by Africanews.
