Somalia is facing a deepening humanitarian emergency as drought conditions, conflict, and sharp reductions in international aid combine to push millions closer to crisis levels of hunger.
In the Puntland region in north-eastern Somalia, where three consecutive rainy seasons have failed, landscapes are now marked by dried-up water sources, failed crops, and dead livestock. Communities dependent on farming and herding say their livelihoods have collapsed as the drought intensifies.
Humanitarian agencies warn that malnutrition rates are rising rapidly, while access to food and medical support continues to shrink. The World Food Programme says funding gaps have severely limited its response capacity, reaching only a fraction of those in need.
Aid groups also report that several health centres and schools have shut down following cuts in international funding, including reductions in United States support. Rising global fuel and food prices have further worsened the situation, making relief operations more expensive and less effective.
Officials say the crisis is being driven by a “toxic mix” of climate shocks, insecurity, displacement, and declining humanitarian assistance. The UN warns that without urgent funding, emergency food aid could be suspended in the coming months.
In displacement camps, families describe growing desperation as rain fails to return and livestock die off. Aid agencies caution that even if rains improve, recovery will take months.
Somalia remains one of the world’s most severe hunger hotspots, with millions at risk as humanitarian needs continue to outpace available resources.
