How Can Global Cooperation and Sustainable Climate Strategies Address Somalia's Worsening Drought Crisis?

 International Cooperation and Climate Action Needed to Address Escalating Humanitarian Crisis

Summary: Somalia’s drought crisis worsens as failed rains and extreme heat impact millions. Over 4.4 million face food insecurity, with 1.6 million children at risk of malnutrition. Urgent humanitarian aid, global cooperation, and sustainable climate strategies are essential to mitigate worsening conditions and prevent further displacement and suffering.

Somalia is facing a deepening drought crisis as prolonged dry conditions spread across the country. The failure of the October to December 2024 rains has led to severe drought in southern and central regions, compounded by ongoing high temperatures.

The most affected areas include Gedo, Hiran, Bay, Bakool, Mudug, Bari, Toghdheer, Bakool, Galguduud, and Sool. The Food and Agriculture Organization’s Somalia Water and Land Information Management (FAO/SWALIM) projects below-normal rainfall for the upcoming April to June gu season, further worsening the situation.

As drought conditions intensify, humanitarian needs are rising. At least 4.4 million people are currently facing high levels of acute food insecurity, and 1.6 million children are at risk of acute malnutrition through July 2025.

Women, children, and marginalized groups are particularly vulnerable to the crisis. Essential interventions such as food aid, borehole drilling, livestock support, and sustainable water management are urgently required to address the worsening humanitarian situation.

International organizations and local humanitarian agencies are working to mobilize resources. In late 2024, the Somalia Humanitarian Fund (SHF) allocated $5 million to mitigate the effects of La Niña, followed by an additional $5 million from the Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF) in December.

The funds support health, nutrition, water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) initiatives in key areas such as Afmadow, Diinsoor, and Wanla Weyn. The funding also aims to minimize displacements and provide essential aid to affected populations.

From an international relations perspective, Somalia’s drought crisis underscores the importance of global cooperation in responding to humanitarian emergencies. Climate-related disasters increasingly require cross-border collaboration, as their impacts extend beyond national boundaries.

Strengthening regional partnerships and international funding mechanisms is crucial to ensuring a coordinated response. Somalia’s situation highlights the need for global solidarity in addressing climate-induced crises.

The drought also raises significant concerns about climate change and sustainable development. Rising temperatures and below-average rainfall contribute to water scarcity, reduced agricultural productivity, and increased displacement. Long-term solutions, including climate-resilient agriculture, reforestation programs, and improved water management systems, are essential to mitigating future drought impacts.

The crisis in Somalia serves as a warning of the urgent need for sustainable environmental policies and proactive climate action to prevent similar humanitarian disasters in vulnerable regions worldwide.

---