Somalia: Drought-Displaced Families in Baidoa Face Deepening Humanitarian Crisis

Mohamed Muktar Sheikh Ahmed Sheikh Ibrahim, a father living in Beledul-Amiin 3 camp, said he was forced to flee his village of Baanow after drought destroyed his farmland and wiped out his livestock, ending the livelihood that once sustained his family. "We used to farm our land and herd livestock. Every evening we drank tea with fresh milk from our animals. We lacked nothing," he recalled. Beyond the drought, displaced families say they also suffered restrictions and hardships in their home areas before seeking refuge in Baidoa. However, life in the city has proven equally challenging. Many struggle to find work, while children lack access to education and essential services. "I tried to find work in construction, but jobs were often given to relatives and close associates," Mohamed said, describing the difficulties of supporting his family. Residents also raised concerns about poor sanitation. Although UNICEF constructed five latrines in the camp, they have become overcrowded, and sewage overflows during rainfall, creating serious health risks. A woman holding her child outside the makeshift shelter where she lives in Beledul Amiin Camp 3, Baidoa, Somalia. Photo: Nuurto Mohamed Hussein. Children in the camp are particularly vulnerable. Many suffer from diseases such as malaria and have limited access to healthcare. Lack of educational opportunities has also exposed some children to street life and substance abuse. According to United Nations humanitarian officials, at least six million people in Somalia are facing food insecurity, with nearly two million children at high risk of illness or death due to malnutrition. UN officials warn that the humanitarian situation continues to deteriorate. Another displaced resident, Cabdi Ali Abdirahman of Daarul Amiin 3 camp, said drought and hunger forced his family to leave their home after losing both livestock and crops. He added that many vulnerable families remain excluded from aid despite being registered by humanitarian organizations. Camp residents have appealed to humanitarian agencies for urgent assistance, including food aid, mosquito nets, plastic sheeting for shelter, healthcare services, and educational opportunities for their children. Nuurto Mohamed Hussein reported from Baidoa, Somalia