Famine looming in Somalia without urgent funding boost
World Food Programme warns of severe drought and starvation threatening millions
MOGADISHU, Somalia (MNTV) — Somalia faces a growing food crisis with drought and rising hunger putting millions at risk, the UN World Food Programme (WFP) has warned.
Children are the most vulnerable. At least 1.7 million are at risk of acute malnutrition.
Of these, 466,000 could suffer severe acute malnutrition, putting them in immediate danger of death.
Food insecurity is rising. Currently, 3.4 million people are acutely food insecure. That number is expected to reach 4.4 million between April and June—nearly a quarter of Somalia’s population.
“We have learned in Somalia from past experience that delays can be deadly,” said WFP spokesperson Jean-Martin Bauer.
“We need resources to support these very vulnerable groups,” he added.
Bauer urged donors to act quickly. Two consecutive failed crop seasons have left harvests 45% below average.
Poor rainfall has depleted water sources and led to livestock losses.
The situation is expected to worsen.
Forecasters predict another drought from April to June. Malnutrition rates may rise further due to disease outbreaks and reduced food access.
WFP provides 90% of food assistance in Somalia.
It remains a lifeline for thousands, including those displaced by conflict.
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