Somalia: Famine averted but crisis not over

Mogadishu, Somalia, 2025 — After five consecutive failed rainy seasons pushed Somalia to the brink of famine in 2022, the country finally received above-average rainfall in 2024. The improved rains brought hope that the devastating drought — which had killed tens of thousands and displaced millions — might finally be easing. And while famine was indeed averted, the crisis in Somalia is far from over.

Despite the improved rainfall, millions of Somalis remain in crisis. Food insecurity is still widespread, malnutrition remains at emergency levels in many areas, and ongoing conflict continues to displace families and restrict humanitarian access. The humanitarian community cannot afford to look away now that the immediate famine threat has receded.

The long shadow of drought

The 2020–2023 drought was one of the worst in Somalia's recorded history. Five consecutive rainy seasons failed, devastating agricultural production and decimating livestock herds. Pastoralist communities — who make up a significant portion of Somalia's population — lost up to 90% of their animals. Without livestock, they lost their primary source of food, income, and social status.

Even with improved rainfall, communities have not recovered. Rebuilding livestock herds takes years, and many families have nothing left to start over with. Children who suffered severe malnutrition during the drought continue to face long-term health and developmental consequences. Water sources that dried up during the drought have not all been replenished, and access to clean water remains a challenge in many areas.

"Famine was averted, but that does not mean the crisis is over. We cannot afford to look away now that the headlines have faded. The people of Somalia need our continued support."

Millions still in need

Despite the improved rainfall, an estimated 4.3 million people in Somalia still require humanitarian assistance. This includes:

• 1.7 million people facing crisis levels of food insecurity or worse
• 800,000 children suffering from acute malnutrition, including 150,000 with severe acute malnutrition
• 2.9 million internally displaced people living in overcrowded camps or informal settlements
• 1 million people displaced by conflict or climate shocks in the past two years alone

The situation remains particularly dire in the southern and central regions of the country, where conflict between armed groups continues to displace communities and restrict humanitarian access. In some areas, aid workers cannot reach families in need due to ongoing violence and insecurity.

Clean water as a lifeline

One of HopeAid's most critical programs in Somalia focuses on providing clean water and sanitation. Even with improved rainfall, many communities lack access to safe drinking water. Waterborne diseases such as cholera and diarrhea remain major killers, particularly among children under five.

HopeAid has rehabilitated water sources, constructed latrines, and distributed hygiene kits across drought- and conflict-affected areas. Our teams also conduct hygiene promotion campaigns to help communities prevent disease and protect their health.

HopeAid's ongoing response

In addition to water and sanitation programs, HopeAid is continuing to provide emergency food assistance, nutrition programs, health care, and protection services to hundreds of thousands of Somalis in need. Our teams operate across multiple states in south and central Somalia.

Key programs include:

• Therapeutic feeding for severely malnourished children under five
• Mobile health clinics providing primary health care to remote communities
• Cash assistance to help families meet their most urgent needs
• Protection services for women and children at risk of violence and exploitation
• Early recovery and livelihoods support to help families rebuild after the drought

Climate change and the road ahead

Somalia is among the countries most affected by climate change, despite contributing minimally to global greenhouse gas emissions. The country has experienced a rise in both the frequency and intensity of droughts and floods over the past two decades. Climate shocks are projected to become more severe in the coming years, threatening to reverse the fragile gains made during the recent rainy season.

HopeAid is working with Somali communities to build climate resilience — supporting drought-resistant livelihoods, establishing early warning systems, and advocating globally for climate action that protects the most vulnerable.

How you can help

Somalia's crisis is far from over. Millions of people still need our help. Your donation enables HopeAid to continue delivering life-saving assistance and to support Somali communities as they rebuild their lives.

Please donate today and help us stand with the people of Somalia.

Tags: Crisis Update Somalia Drought HopeAid Field Stories