Famine Threatens Somalia Without Increased Funding, WFP Warns

Somalia is once again grappling with rising food insecurity, with millions at risk of hunger. While increased humanitarian aid helped prevent famine in 2022, the situation is deteriorating once more.

Growing Food Crisis

Currently, 3.4 million people in Somalia are facing acute food insecurity, a number expected to increase to 4.4 million between April and June, representing nearly a quarter of the population. According to the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC), acute hunger is classified as level three out of five, with level five indicating famine.

High Risk of Mortality

The World Food Programme (WFP) estimates that 1.26 million children under five require urgent help, with 466,000 at risk of severe acute malnutrition and possible death.

“We have learned from past crises in Somalia that delays can be deadly. We need resources urgently to assist these vulnerable groups,” said WFP spokesperson Jean-Martin Bauer, urging the international community to step up support.

Impact of Poor Harvests

Somalia has suffered two consecutive failed harvest seasons, resulting in 45% lower yields than average. Recurring climate shocks, including poor rainfall, have depleted water sources and led to significant livestock losses.

Experts predict another drought from April to June, and humanitarian organizations warn that malnutrition could worsen due to disease outbreaks and reduced food availability.

Funding Shortages Threaten Aid

WFP has already reduced aid from 2.2 million people in 2022 to just 820,000 due to chronic underfunding. The agency has also scaled back its school meal program, suspending operations in regions such as South West State and Somaliland.

Only 12% of the $1.4 billion humanitarian appeal for Somalia has been funded so far. Given that WFP supplies up to 90% of the country's food assistance, these shortfalls put millions at risk, especially those displaced by conflict.

Bauer emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, “We need all possible resources to be mobilized to prevent the worst outcomes.”

Without increased funding and immediate intervention, Somalia could face a devastating humanitarian crisis.