Escalating Drought and Food Insecurity Crisis in Somalia and the Horn of Africa Threatens Millions

The Horn of Africa, particularly Somalia, is experiencing a worsening humanitarian situation due to recurring drought conditions and deteriorating economic and security circumstances in several rural areas. Weak rainfall seasons in recent years have significantly reduced agricultural production and led to the loss of large numbers of livestock, which represent the primary source of income and food for millions of households in the region.

Local conflicts and insecurity in parts of Somalia have further complicated the humanitarian situation. Sporadic clashes and the presence of armed groups continue to disrupt livelihoods and restrict the movement of civilians and humanitarian assistance. As a result, many families are being forced to leave rural areas and move toward urban centers or displacement camps in search of food, water, and humanitarian support. 

Recent humanitarian estimates indicate that approximately 6.5 million people in Somalia are facing acute levels of food insecurity in early 2026, driven by the combined impact of drought, rising food prices, and declining humanitarian assistance. In addition, around 1.84 million children under the age of five are expected to suffer from acute malnutrition during 2026, including hundreds of thousands who may face severe levels of malnutrition.

At the same time, more than 3.5 million people are currently living in internal displacement within Somalia, largely due to the combined effects of conflict, drought, and the collapse of rural livelihoods. Limited access to water and rising water prices in several regions are placing additional pressure on vulnerable households, while the ability of communities to cope with recurring climate shocks continues to decline. 

The security situation in parts of Somalia remains fragile due to the continued activity of armed groups in several regions, which restricts humanitarian access to the areas most in need. Localized clashes in some regions also contribute to further displacement and complicate humanitarian response efforts. 

United Nations agencies and humanitarian organizations continue to implement emergency response programs in Somalia, including food assistance distribution, access to clean water, support for healthcare services, and nutrition programs targeting women and children. Humanitarian actors are also working to strengthen livelihood support programs for communities affected by drought, including assistance to farmers and pastoralists and rehabilitation of water sources. These efforts aim to reduce long-term dependence on humanitarian aid and enhance the resilience of communities facing recurring climate shocks. 

• Expand emergency food assistance programs in drought-affected areas.
• Strengthen water and sanitation services in displacement camps and affected rural communities.
• Increase nutrition support programs for children and women in areas with high malnutrition rates.
• Improve humanitarian access to conflict-affected regions.
• Support climate adaptation and livelihood recovery programs to mitigate the impact of recurring droughts.