Hargeisa – Hornpost.net / .com Drought Crisis in Somaliland A Humanitarian Overview
Somaliland continues to face one of the most severe droughts in recent years, following consecutive failed rainy seasons. The drought has devastated pastoralist communities, killed large numbers of livestock, and left tens of thousands of families without sufficient access to food, water, and basic services.
According to the National Drought Relief Committee, over 9,000 families are currently in urgent need of humanitarian assistance, particularly in the eastern regions of the country. The government of Somaliland, in collaboration with local and international partners, has launched emergency response efforts to mitigate the crisis.
On August 2nd, the Vice President of Somaliland and Chair of the National Drought Relief Committee, H.E. Mohamed Ali Aw Abdi, received an initial food aid donation from the Government of the United Arab Emirates, delivered by its representative in Somaliland, Dr. Abdalla Al Naqbi. The donation is expected to benefit thousands of affected households.
In a separate effort, the Bank of Somaliland contributed 120 million Somaliland Shillings, raised by its staff, to support the national drought response. The government has commended this act of solidarity and called on more institutions to contribute.
While these efforts are welcome, aid agencies warn that the scale of the drought requires sustained international support to prevent widespread food insecurity and displacement.
Key Needs:
Emergency food and water supplies
Livelihood support for pastoralists
Health and nutrition interventions
Long-term climate resilience strategies
Hornpost staff reporter
