Nearly 6.5 million people in Somalia are facing severe hunger, according to a joint statement released Tuesday by the federal government and UN agencies. This crisis is being intensified by a worsening drought, ongoing conflict within the country, and reductions in global aid.
Worsening Conditions
New data from the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification report projects that 6.5 million individuals will face crisis or worse levels of food insecurity by the end of March. The situation is particularly dire for children, with an estimated 1.84 million under the age of five expected to suffer acute malnutrition in 2026.
Multiple Factors at Play
Officials have identified several contributing factors to the deteriorating food security situation. These include water shortages, ongoing insecurity and conflict, and historically low levels of humanitarian assistance due to global funding cuts. The drought, linked to lower-than-average rainfall, has led to crop failures, livestock losses, and rising food prices.
George Conway, the U.N. Humanitarian coordinator for Somalia, stated that the drought emergency has “deepened alarmingly,” citing soaring water prices, limited food supplies, dying livestock, and insufficient humanitarian funding.
What Could Happen Next
If conditions persist, the number of people facing severe hunger could remain high. Even with average rainfall during the upcoming rainy season, 5.5 million people are expected to remain in crisis or worse later in 2026. Recovery from the drought is expected to be a lengthy process.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current level of food insecurity in Somalia?
6.5 million people are projected to face crisis or worse levels of food insecurity by the end of March.
How many children are at risk of malnutrition?
1.84 million children under the age of 5 are expected to suffer acute malnutrition in 2026, including nearly 500,000 who will be severely malnourished.
What is contributing to the crisis?
Worsening drought, conflict, and global aid cuts are intensifying the humanitarian crisis in Somalia.
What role does international aid play in mitigating the effects of this crisis?
