Somalia: WFP Warns Somalia Faces Deepening Humanitarian Crisis As Millions Go Hungry

What the report says

The United Nations World Food Programme has warned the UN Security Council that Somalia is facing a worsening humanitarian emergency, with millions of people dealing with severe food insecurity and malnutrition. The warning was reported by Shabelle and distributed by AllAfrica, citing a briefing by WFP Acting Executive Director Carl Skau after visits to crisis-hit areas, including Burhakaba in southern Somalia.

According to the report, nearly six million people in Somalia — close to one-third of the population — are experiencing acute food insecurity. WFP also estimates that almost two million children under five could suffer acute malnutrition this year, including about 500,000 who may need urgent treatment for severe cases. Aid groups say the situation is being driven by drought and other climate-related shocks, armed conflict, higher prices for basic goods, and disruptions to supply chains.

The article says humanitarian operations are under heavy strain because donor funding has fallen sharply. Agencies now have only a fraction of the resources available during Somalia’s 2022 drought response, forcing WFP to scale back direct assistance. The shortfall has hit displaced communities especially hard, with some health and nutrition centres in camps closing or cutting services.

UN officials and aid agencies are urging faster international support, protection for supply routes, and help for farming and livestock-based livelihoods. They also caution that waiting for a formal famine declaration could delay life-saving action.