Monday March 18, 2024
MOGADISHU (HOL)— The United Nations has raised a red flag over Somalia's escalating humanitarian crisis, marked by widespread food insecurity and malnutrition. During a recent visit, Joyce Msuya, Assistant Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Deputy Emergency Relief Coordinator, along with Beth Bechdol, Deputy Director-General of the Food and Agriculture Organization, drew attention to the dire needs of millions.
The country's ordeal stems from severe climatic events — the most severe drought in four decades followed by catastrophic floods. This has left four million Somalis, 21% of the population, grappling with extreme food shortages. "The worst is far from over," Msuya declared in Mogadishu on March 9. "Somalia's future, and the lives of millions of people, hang on a very, very tight balance."
Children are notably affected, with approximately 1.7 million under five facing acute malnutrition in 2024, including 430,000 who are severely malnourished. Despite ongoing efforts, such as the Blanket Supplementary Feeding Programme, challenges like insufficient funding and logistical barriers persist.
During their mission, Msuya and Bechdol emphasized the crucial role women play in the region's food security and agricultural sustainability. "It is so critical in the food and agriculture system that we lift up women," Bechdol noted, acknowledging the significant workload shouldered by women across Africa.
Their visit also included the inauguration of new OCHA Somalia offices in Mogadishu and discussions with various stakeholders about how to address Somalia's multifaceted challenges effectively.
Though food security has seen some improvement due to recent rainfall, the situation remains critical. The upcoming Gu harvest might provide short-term relief, but looming flood threats and sustained high commodity prices add layers of complexity.
The 2024 Humanitarian Needs and Response Plan shows a decrease in the total number of Somalis in need — from 8.3 million in 2023 to 6.9 million, thanks to an effective humanitarian response and favorable late-2023 weather. However, ongoing conflict and displacement continue to destabilize the region.
"I have been deeply moved by the strength, by the resilience, by the courage, by the commitment...for the people of Somalia," said Ms. Msuya.