An analysis by the Integrated Food Security Phase (IPC) has shown that at least 3.6 million people (approximately 19% of the population) in Somalia are currently experiencing extreme hunger
As the La Nina weather phenomenon approaches, the World Food Programme, Food and Agriculture Organization, United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, and UNICEF are warning that things could take a turn for the worse.
“We are at a pivotal moment and must sound the alarm. Without swift action, Somalia risks slipping back into the hunger crisis that nearly led to famine in recent years,” Elkhidir Daloum, WFP’s country director in Somalia has revealed.
Daloum further revealed that despite progress in food security, many families are still at risk of hunger as food prices surge and crop yields dwindle, further calling on stakeholders to focus on providing immediate assistance while fostering long-term resilience.
Meanwhile, IPC predictions have put the possibility of the La Nina weather phenomenon at 80 percent, making drought inevitable.
“The erratic rainfall between May and June 2024 led to a reduction in crop production in agropastoral livelihoods. While the Gu rains improved pasture and water availability in pastoral livelihoods, localized floods affected populations in riverine and adjacent urban areas in Hiraan, Gedo, Middle Shabelle, and Lower Shabelle, forcing parts of the population to be displaced,” an ICP report says.
It further indicates that conflict and insecurity in the region have displaced large populations, disrupted agricultural activities, and contributed to food insecurity.
The UNICEF representative Wafaa Saeed has weighed in on the matter, saying that while the number of malnourished children has gone down, there is a need for more sustained life-saving assistance.
