Friday August 23, 2024
Somali families receive essential food supplies at a distribution center in a drought-affected area, as food insecurity continues to plague millions across the country. Credit: WFP
Mogadishu (HOL) — Somalia is facing a severe food insecurity crisis, with 4 million people suffering from acute food insecurity, according to the 2024 Global Report on Food Crises. The report, which analyzes the food security situation in the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) member states, shows that despite some progress, the situation in Somalia remains precarious, mirroring broader issues across the Horn of Africa.
The IGAD region as a whole is experiencing worsening food insecurity, with 62.9 million people—25% of the analyzed population—requiring urgent humanitarian assistance. This is a 1 million increase from 2023, mainly driven by the ongoing conflict in Sudan. Sudan is now experiencing the highest levels of food insecurity ever recorded, with 25.6 million people in need of urgent aid.
Somalia has seen slight improvements, including better rainfall over the past three seasons and continued humanitarian support. However, the effects of the 2020-2023 drought, soaring food prices, and ongoing localized conflicts continue to strain the country’s food security. The report warns that these gains could easily be lost without sustained support, particularly in regions vulnerable to flooding and violence.
Macroeconomic challenges, such as currency depreciation and fluctuating food prices, have further restricted access to food, especially in rural areas. Additionally, conflicts in neighbouring countries like Ethiopia and Sudan have disrupted regional trade, exacerbating the food crisis in Somalia.
The report highlights the dire situation for vulnerable populations, especially children and pregnant or breastfeeding women. Across the IGAD region, 11.4 million children under five are acutely malnourished, with 2.8 million suffering from severe wasting. Somalia remains one of the most affected countries, with malnutrition driven by inadequate maternal and child-feeding practices and limited access to health services.
The report calls for urgent, coordinated regional efforts to address the root causes of food insecurity in the Horn of Africa. It stresses the need for increased investment in sustainable food systems, enhanced resilience against climate extremes, and proactive measures to mitigate economic shocks. Resolving ongoing conflicts that drive displacement and disrupt food production is also critical.
While Somalia has made progress in reducing the number of people in Catastrophe (IPC Phase 5), the overall food security situation remains fragile. Without sustained interventions, the risk of worsening food insecurity remains high, not just in Somalia but across the Horn of Africa.