Tuesday May 7, 2024
Hibo Ahmed speaks to a WFP employee at Somalia's Daryeel IDP camp. Photo: WFP/Patrick Mwangi
Mogadishu (HOL) — The UN World Food Program (WFP) is urgently seeking $228 million to extend its humanitarian efforts in Somalia, aiming to tackle severe food insecurity and malnutrition that currently afflict millions. The funding is crucial for the period between April to September of this year, with $208 million required for life-saving interventions.
Recent assessments indicate that about 3.4 million people will face acute food shortages between April and June, with significant improvements expected as pasture and agricultural water become more readily available, particularly in rural areas. Despite these encouraging signs, the challenge remains daunting, with 1.7 million children under five at risk of acute malnutrition in 2024, including 430,000 who may suffer from life-threatening severe malnutrition.
In March, WFP successfully reached 2 million people through $31 million in cash transfers and distributed 3,205 metric tons of food. This includes extending a government-led safety net project to an additional 232,000 individuals.
To further enhance its response, WFP has established a new partnership with the UN refugee agency (UNHCR), focusing on utilizing WFP’s expertise in cash-based transfers to cover the food and nutritional needs of refugees, asylum seekers, and returnees for the next six months.
The upcoming Gu rainy season is forecasted to have normal to above-average rainfall, which could potentially cause flooding and displacement in April and May. However, this marks the third consecutive season of favourable rainfall, likely aiding the gradual recovery of the agricultural and livestock sectors.
WFP continues to bolster its operational capabilities, engaging in strategic partnerships and launching initiatives like the Farm2go app, which connects smallholder farmers with markets. The agency also works closely with various ministries to enhance healthcare logistics and environmental sustainability.
WFP has expressed gratitude to its international donors for their continued support but underscores the critical need for additional funding to sustain and expand its efforts in addressing the humanitarian crisis in Somalia.