United Nations in Somalia

The Sustainable Development Goals are a global call to action to end poverty, protect the earth’s environment and climate, and ensure that people everywhere can enjoy peace and prosperity. These are the goals the UN is working on in Somalia:

Learn more

Story

19 November 2024

Irrigation project pour forth for displaced Somalis in Baidoa

Baidoa – Aden Sheikh Issack has a small allotment on an eight-acre communal farm in Barwaqo, a small settlement of internally displaced people (IDPs) on the outskirts of Baidoa in Somalia’s Bay region. He fled there when the conflict and hunger in his former residential area became too much to bear.At first, it was not easy surviving as a displaced person with large family but – with some external assistance – the farm has become productive and allows him to look after his wife and 11 children, as well as sell extra produce to local markets.The 50-year-old was proud to show off his farm recently to visit from the Somalia Joint Fund (SJF) – a multi-donor fund supporting Somalia’s development priorities. The visitors included representatives of the Somali government and the United Nations, and they had come to see firsthand the impact of the irrigation project which has ramped up the farmer’s output of maize, sugarcane and vegetables.“The irrigation project has been very beneficial, and we are already seeing its positive impact. I have been a beneficiary of this project since 2019 and I see better days ahead,” said Mr. Issack during the delegation’s recent visit to Barwaqo.Like Mr. Issack’s family, many local households have benefitted from the SJF’s Saameynta (transl.: ‘impact’) Programme – an eight-acre solar-powered, micro-irrigation drip serviced by a communal borehole, and set up to assist IDPs on land provided by the government.“This farm supports 57 families, with the smallest family having six members. This means we are talking about a minimum of 340 people. The total number is around 400 to 500 people and, out of the 57 families, 43 are led by women, including single mothers,” said the Director of Coordination and Monitoring in the federal government of Somalia’s Ministry of Planning, Mahamud Sicid Nur, told the visiting delegation.The four-year project will directly support 25,000 households and indirectly assist 150,000 people in South West State and Puntland, in the country’s north, by the end of 2025. International supportThe Saameynta Programme aims to provide durable solutions and scale up investments in mixed-use land development packages through drip irrigation, infrastructure improvement and small-scale business expansion. It is jointly implemented by the UN Development Programme (UNDP), the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) and the UN Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat), with funding provided through the SJF.According to the SJF’s manager, Peter Nordstrom, Saameynta has made important contributions to improving the economic status of displaced families. “The benefits of drip irrigation in arid or semi-arid environments are evident and its potential for creating sustainable livelihoods for communities is significant,” Mr. Nordstrom said.“At the same time,” he added, “access to land is at the heart of durable solutions for Somalia’s displacement crisis. Here in Barwaqo, the municipality has generously provided the land used for this communal farm but it is only serving a small portion of the IDP population.” Local authorities are keen to expand the project after having experienced its benefits.“In the past, we used to space the crops by about two metres when planting, but now we only space by 10 centimetres due to drip irrigation. This approach is new to us, and we are really impressed by the increased production,” Mr. Isaack told the visiting delegation.“Drip irrigation has also reduced our harvest times,” he continued. “We used to wait three months to harvest, but now we can harvest in just 15 days.”The trip was the SJF’s first joint UN-government monitoring mission, giving participants a firsthand look at the progress of ongoing programmes in the region. It was designed to explore synergies and to strengthen linkages within the SJF portfolio on the ground so as to facilitate more effective monitoring, foster learning and maximize impact through strategic collaboration and coordination between among the Federal Government of Somalia, local authorities and the United Nations.The visit also served as a platform for engaging directly with local authorities and community members.“Previously, displaced persons used to depend on aid, but now they have transitioned into farmers, producing their own food,” said the South West State’s Minister of Planning, Economic Development and International Cooperation, Hussein Mohamud Sheikh Hussein. “They are now food secure and sell any surplus to earn income,” he added. “This shows that we are gradually shifting from food dependency to self-sufficient farmers.”Critical funds Launched in 2023, the SJF is a multi-donor trust fund backed by Canada, Norway, Netherlands, Sweden, Switzerland and the European Union. It aims to strengthen partnership between the Somali Government, the United Nations and international partners in support of Somalia’s national development priorities and the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals. Country-level pooled funds like the SJF are critical for the United Nations’ ability to better support development aspirations of the countries it operates in through the provision of the necessary flexibility to respond to complex challenges facing Somalia and to maximize synergies across the UN system through joint action.Originally established in 2014 and formerly known as Somalia Multi-Partner Trust Fund, the SJF is also one of the largest country-level development funds globally with more than $500 million in contributions since inception.

1 of 3

Press Release

02 July 2024

Federal Government of Somalia and United Nations convene the 2024 meeting of the Joint Steering Committee of the UN Cooperation Framework for Somalia (2021-2025)

The meeting of the Joint Steering Committee was co-chaired by the Minister for Planning, Investment and Economic Development, His Excellency, Mohamud A. Sheikh Farah (Beenebeene) and the UN Deputy Special Representative of the Secretary-General, Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator for Somalia, Mr. George Conway. His Excellency. Mohamud A. Sheikh Farah (Beenebeene) acknowledged the significance of the partnership in support of Somalia’s development priorities. “The Cooperation Framework is a testament to our strong partnership with the UN, driving forward our national development agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). We are committed to ensuring that the progress we make together translates into tangible improvements in the lives of the Somali people,” said, Minister, Mohamud.Speaking during the event, Mr. George Conway explained the annual Joint Steering Committee for the UN Cooperation Framework provides a platform to take stock and recalibrate our engagement to ensure alignment with the vision and aspirations of the country.“Five-year plans such as the UN Cooperation Framework are important to hold us accountable to commitments made. Under leadership of His Excellency the President, Somalia is conceiving a centennial Vision 2060 that seeks to capture Somali aspirations for their country. Providing a longer-term vision to guide short- and medium-term efforts will be helpful both in the finalization of the next National Transformation Plan as well as our next UN Cooperation Framework," said, Mr. Conway. The UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (2021-2025) is the UN's multi-year strategic plan to guide the UN’s collective contribution to the realization of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the Sustainable Development Goals in Somalia.—————————————————————————————————— FOR MEDIA INQUIRES: Communication Unit Department, Ministry of Planning, Investment and Economic Development | Email: Info@mop.gov.so Abdilatif Adan, Communications Specialist, UN Resident Coordinator Office in Somalia | Phone: +252614125028 | Email: abdilatif.adan@un.org | https://somalia.un.org/en |

1 of 3

Story

21 December 2021

Somalia is on the path of recovery, but real challenges remain

I arrived in Somalia in September 2019, two decades after having worked here previously. I knew that I was taking up a challenging assignment, but I was also looking forward to seeing Somalia’s progress. Afflicted by decades of conflict, recurrent climatic shocks, disease outbreaks and poverty, Somalia was often called a ‘failed state.’ The narrative is now changing, and although fragile, Somalia is on a path to stability and the resilience of the Somali people is second to none. That said, we are not under any illusion: significant challenges remain, and we must work even harder to preserve the gains made to date. Somalia’s upward trajectory is evident in the construction boom, as one analyst noted -- the sound of the hammer is replacing the sound of gunfire in Somalia’s capital. The UN has been closely supporting the Somali people since the birth of the Republic in 1960. Currently, the UN's various mandates are implemented through 26  Agencies, Funds and Programmes (both resident and non-resident), one political mission (UNSOM) and one logistical support mission (UNSOS). The UN’s commitment towards the Somali cause is articulated in detail in the UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF 2021-2025), mirroring the priorities of Somalia’s Ninth National Development Plan (NDP-9). At the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, the UN marshalled support to help the Somali government respond to the virus outbreak. We continue to support the Somali authorities in seeking to defeat this pandemic and encouraging people to get vaccinated. Elections are also on-going in Somalia. The UN is supporting the process to ensure that elections are held in a peaceful and transparent manner, while at the same time advocating for 30 per cent women’s quota in the Somali legislature. While these are encouraging signs of progress, we must not forget Somalia’s long-standing challenges. According to UN’s projections for next year, an estimated 7.7 million Somalis (nearly half of the country’s population) will require humanitarian assistance and protection. Women and children continue to bear the brunt of Somalia’s complex humanitarian crises, especially among the internally displaced communities. In light of the current serious droughts, the Somali government declared a humanitarian state of emergency on 23 November. Yet, neither the government nor the humanitarian community has adequate resources to respond. With a few days remaining in the year, the 2021 Humanitarian Response Plan which seeks US$1.09 billion remains only 70 per cent funded. Additional resources are urgently needed to prevent the dire humanitarian situation from becoming a catastrophe, so we continue to engage partners on this subject. In this regard, I undertook missions to Europe in October and to the Gulf in September. Throughout my interactions with partners, I stressed the need for additional funding to address Somalia’s escalating humanitarian crisis and elaborated on how inaction not only risks a reversal of the gains but puts the lives of millions of Somalis in jeopardy. Through my field visits in Somalia, I have also seen first-hand the grim realities of adverse climate conditions. Somalia is no doubt on the frontline of climate change. The recurrent droughts and floods are driving widespread displacement, rapid urbanization, hunger, malnutrition and poverty. Climate change is also increasingly seen as the driver of conflict and a threat to the country’s security as the struggle over meagre resources deepens divisions. In addition, the loss of traditional livelihoods makes people vulnerable to recruitment by armed groups such as Al-Shabaab. Somalia is currently experiencing a third consecutive season of below-average rainfall, with nearly 80 per cent of the country experiencing drought conditions, water shortages and livestock deaths. One in five Somalis does not have enough water to cover his/her basic needs. On a positive note, as part of the efforts to mitigate the climate emergency, the government, with the support of the United Nations, has recently adopted an ambitious Nationally Determined Contribution to achieve global climate targets, in which Somalia committed to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by 30 per cent by 2030. Somalia’s crises are multifaceted, and they require comprehensive solutions from all stakeholders. It is our collective responsibility to support the efforts of the Somali people to cope with these crises and find lasting solutions that build resilience against future shocks. We must not fail the people we pledged to serve. Adam Abdelmoula, Deputy Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General, Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator for Somalia, held a press conference on Monday, 20 December on the situation in Somalia, where the UN and partners is launching a nearly $1.5 billion Humanitarian Response Plan (HRP). Roughly 7.7 million people in the country will need assistance and protection in 2022, a 30 per cent rise in just one year. Written by Adam Abdelmoula, Deputy Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General, Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator for Somalia

1 of 3

Story

31 July 2025

A round-up of activities of the UN system in Somalia in July 2025

   UN congratulates Somalia on 65th anniversary of independenceOn the occasion of the 65th anniversary of Somalia’s independence, marked on 1 July, the United Nations congratulated the people and government of Somalia and commended the nation’s progress since 1960."Somalia has much to be rightfully proud of, including achievements in advancing peace, prosperity, and governance despite facing great challenges,” the UN Secretary-General’s Special Representative for Somalia, James Swan, said in a message.“On behalf of the United Nations family in Somalia, I say ‘hambalyo,’ on this significant day, and reaffirm the UN’s commitment to supporting Somalia as it strives for even greater progress in the years to come,” he added.Click here for more.  UNICEF supports the installation of solar powered cold chains unitsIn a bid to strengthen Somalia’s health system, the Federal Ministry of Health, in collaboration with UNICEF, has installed 148 solar-powered cold chain units across the country, thanks to funding from the World Bank.This investment is part of a broader cold chain rehabilitation plan, which will increase the number of health facilities with functional cold chain equipment from 959 in 2023 to 1,117 by the end of 2025, and raise immunisation coverage from 77% to 96%. These climate-sensitive units include cold rooms, dual-function refrigerators, and ultra-low temperature freezers.To ensure sustainability, remote temperature monitoring devices have been deployed, and 89 regional cold chain managers have been trained, with additional capacity-building efforts underway. This initiative represents a significant step towards building robust and accessible health infrastructure in Somalia, ensuring life-saving vaccines reach every child, even in remote areas. Chick here for more.  UNHCR champions refugee entrepreneurs at the 5th Entrepreneurship Summit

In July, UNHCR Somalia participated in and sponsored the 5th Entrepreneurship Summit under the theme “Investing in Human Capital Development.” The event provided a platform to spotlight refugee entrepreneurs who shared compelling stories of resilience, innovation, and talent. Their active participation emphasized the vital role refugees play in local economies and the importance of inclusive investment. By supporting such forums, UNHCR continues to promote refugee self-reliance, restore dignity, and build stronger, more inclusive communities. The summit also reinforced the value of private sector engagement in advancing durable solutions for displaced populations. Click here for more.

  UNDP participates in the Global Somali Entrepreneurship summitThe Global Somali Entrepreneurship Forum (GSEF2025) kicked off in Nairobi, Kenya, bringing together Somali entrepreneurs, investors, and international partners to shape a stronger, more inclusive business environment for Somalia’s future.At GSEF2025, UNDP Somalia hosted a dedicated side event on "Enhancing the Business Environment and Opportunities in Somalia."Panelists from Visa, the Somali Chamber of Commerce, the Somali Stock Exchange, SIMAD University, and One Earth Future shared powerful insights on how policy reforms, institutional development, and private sector engagement can drive sustainable economic transformation.Click here for more.  UNOPs supports construction of emergency health unitsUNOPS and Somalia’s Ministry of Health have launched the construction of new emergency health units at Bay Regional Hospital in Baidoa, including an Accident and Emergency Unit, Intensive Care Unit, Minor Operation Theatre and X-ray Department. These efforts are part of a World Bank-financed initiative to build emergency response capacity at six hospitals across Somalia and includes climate-smart features to enhance health system resilience.UNOPS has also supported the construction a new Vaccine Storage Cold Chain Facility at Forlanini Hospital in Mogadishu. The facility is designed to improve vaccine storage and distribution during emergencies. Both projects demonstrate a coordinated effort to strengthen Somalia’s healthcare infrastructure and emergency preparedness.Click here for more.   Somalia Opens First Indigenous Seed Bank in MogadishuTo strengthen Somalia’s climate resilience, preserve indigenous seeds, protect biodiversity and regenerate native plant species, the City University of Mogadishu, with support from IOM, has launched the country’s first indigenous seed bank. The seed bank helps to conserve indigenous knowledge and farming practices, supports women as key custodians of seeds, and enhances food security. It holds seeds contributed by members of the Balacad Community Seed Bank established by the International Organization for Migration (IOM), whose members are drawn from different, often conflicting, communities - fostering trust and promoting collaboration among the members of the communities, including women.Click here for more.  Somalia’s child immunization rates more than doubled in 2024, a new report findsSomalia is closing the immunization gap with 70% of children now fully vaccinated—an increase of 28% from 2012 to 2024. This progress is driven by strong leadership from the Ministry of Health, in collaboration with WHO Somalia, UNICEF Somalia, and global partners. The annual WHO/UNICEF Estimates of National Immunization Coverage (WUENIC) released in July showcases improvements across all antigens since 2019. WUENIC provides country-level datasets on key infant and childhood vaccinations, highlighting areas of progress, opportunities for further enhancement, and any declines in coverage.Click here for more.  UNIDO Champions Public-Private Dialogue for Vision 2060UNIDO Somalia, in collaboration with the National Economic Council (NEC), convened the Private Sector Development Pillar Workshop in Mogadishu as part of the national Centennial Vision 2060 (CV2060) implementation process. The workshop brought together over 60 participants from government institutions, financial bodies, private sector actors, innovation hubs, and diaspora representatives to assess policy priorities and structural challenges facing Somalia’s private sector. Key discussions addressed regulatory and financial barriers impacting start-ups and SMEs, intellectual property protection, and Somalia’s readiness to compete in regional and international markets. UNIDO Somalia led two high-level panel sessions highlighting priority reforms and investments to unlock the full potential of start-ups and SMEs. Insights gathered during the workshop will contribute directly to the CV2060 implementation roadmap. UNIDO was recognized for its leadership and continued commitment to fostering an inclusive, innovation-driven private sector in Somalia.Click here for more.   UNMAS strengthens community awareness of explosive threats in Hirshabelle.In collaboration with IOM, UNMAS Somalia has successfully conducted a two-day explosive ordnance (EO) and Improvised Explosive Device (IED) awareness course in Mogadishu under the Collaborative Safety and Security Framework project of IOM.UNMAS trained 20 community representatives from Maqakori, Adan Yabaal, and Masjid Aligadud of Hirshabelle region to strengthen community knowledge on explosive threats, including landmines, IEDs, and explosive remnants of war. The representatives will pass on safety messages to their community members in hopes of identifying and reporting EO, promoting safe behaviour, reducing casualties, and enabling safer returns. As armed conflict continues to impact the civilian population in Hirshabelle, this training is a critical step towards reducing civilian casualties and fostering safer and more resilient communities.Click here for more.  FAO launches Identification documents for fishermen In a key step for fisheries information management, the FAO, the World Bank, and Jubaland's Ministry of Fisheries successfully launched identification document (ID), for fishermen across the state under the Somalia Crisis Recovery Project. This initiative is a crucial part of FAO’s BlueTransformation efforts, as it helps to formalize and better manage the fisheries sector. The new ID cards will provide accurate data, ensuring that policies and support programs effectively reach the right communities and contribute to the sustainable development of the sector.Click here for more.
UNFPA and NHPC Lead Capacity-Building WorkshopUNFPA Somalia, in partnership with the Somalia National Health Professions Council (NHPC), co-hosted a transformative four-day workshop to strengthen NHPC staff’s capacity to roll out Somalia’s new Midwifery Regulatory Framework. Through interactive modules on educational accreditation, licensing procedures, continuous professional development (CPD), and ethical practice, participants gained hands-on tools and strategic insights to ensure that Somali midwives are rigorously trained, duly licensed, ethically accountable, and committed to lifelong learning in maternal and newborn care.  Click here for more.

1 of 5

Story

13 July 2025

A round-up of activities of the UN system in Somalia in June 2025

Economy| UNIDO fosters international partnerships for entrepreneurs from SomaliaUNIDO, in partnership with the European Union and its local and international partners, facilitated a study tour across Italy, Slovenia, and Austria for Somali incubator representatives. Organized under the EU-funded initiative “Business Incubators to Support Entrepreneurship and MSME Creation in Somalia,” the tour exposed participants to best practices in innovation, climate-smart technologies, sustainable agriculture, creative industries, and artificial intelligence.The initiative aimed to build the capacity of Somali incubators, foster international linkages, and promote inclusive and sustainable entrepreneurship. Before the tour, the UNIDO Somalia team held a week-long retreat at UNIDO Headquarters to reflect on programming priorities, including value chain development, entrepreneurship, access to finance, and skills training.By connecting Somali incubators with international ecosystems, the initiative supports a more resilient and inclusive private sector in Somalia. UNIDO, together with the EU and other partners, remains committed to enabling Somali entrepreneurs to drive innovation and transformative economic growth.Click here for more Protection | UNHCR marks World Refugee Day In June, UNHCR and partners marked World Refugee Day 2025 with a series of events across Somalia, focusing on the global theme of “Solidarity with Refugees.” The commemorations aimed to recognize the courage and strength of displaced communities while creating spaces for storytelling, cultural expression, and community engagement. Through art, sports, and dialogue, the events celebrated refugee contributions and promoted inclusion, unity, and hope. World Refugee Day also served as a vital moment to reflect on the ongoing challenges facing forcibly displaced people and to renew collective efforts toward protection, dignity, and lasting solutions.Click here for more. Agriculture | FAO hands over new fodder hub In Gabiley, FAO Representative in Somalia, Etienne Peterschmitt handed over a new fodder hub to Somalia’s Minister of Livestock and Rural Development, Hon. Omar Shaib. This critical facility will transform local fodder systems by providing reliable access to quality animal feed—a lifeline for agro-pastoral communities in drought-prone regions. Fodder hubs mitigate the devastating impacts of climate shocks by stabilizing livestock nutrition during dry seasons, preventing mass animal deaths, and safeguarding pastoral livelihoods. By ensuring year-round feed availability, the hub enhances resilience, sustains milk production for vulnerable households, and bolsters income generation through healthier livestock markets.Click here for more. Health| WHO supports access to lifesaving vaccines for Somali childrenIn the month of June, WHO supported the delivery of measles, pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV), and polio vaccines as part of the first integrated campaign of its kind to protect Somali children from measles, pneumonia, and polio across in Somalia. This follows the April 2025 introduction of PCV into the national immunization programme in an initiative led by the Federal Ministry of Health, with support from WHO, UNICEF, Gavi, and other partners. Click here for more. Youth and Women Empowerment |IOM and Japan launch Project to Empower Women and Youth in SomaliaThe International Organization for Migration (IOM), with funding from the Government of Japan, launched a new project to empower women and youth affected by violent extremism in Somalia. The initiative will reach over 30,000 people across Jubaland and South West States over the next 12 months; and will provide critical support to women and youth formerly associated with violent extremist groups. It aims to prevent (re-)recruitment by addressing drivers of violent extremism and fostering inclusive, resilient communities through tailored protection services, skills development, and peacebuilding efforts. Click here for more. Community Empowerment| IOM Co-Funding initiative raised funds to empower communities As parts of efforts to mitigate unreliable power and unsafe roads threatened their university education, IOM Somalia co-funding initiative is supporting a solar-powered solution. With support from the District Commissioner and IOM’s Co-Funding System (CFS), they raised $10,000, which IOM matched, lighting the road and powering the university sustainably. This transformed not just the campus—lowering tuition and boosting safety—but also delivered free clean water to locals and pastoralists. Their initiative inspired broader community-led projects across Somalia. By 2024, 42 CFS projects had benefited over 580,000 people, proving that collective action, transparency, and local ownership can rebuild trust, strengthen resilience, and create lasting change—even in fragile settings.Click here for more. Climate action | OCHA -UNEP conduct training on environment and humanitarian actionThe UNEP/OCHA Joint Environment Unit (JEU) concluded a 7-day Localisation of Environment in Humanitarian Action (LEHA) training in Mogadishu between 15 and 21 June with 27 humanitarian professionals, and government representatives. JEU is partnering with the Somali NGOs Consortium (SNC) and has made the contextualized training materials open source for wider use.Click here for more. Child protection | UNICEF supports Somaliland children conference On 16th June 2025, on the Day of the African Child, with support from UNICEF, Somaliland government led by His Excellency, President Abdirahman Abdillahi held the first Somaliland Children’s Conference, that brought together senior government officials, policymakers, UN agencies, and international and national non-governmental organizations.The conference ensured that children’s voices were heard and considered in shaping policies and practices. Three hundred and fifty children from all six regions of Somaliland participated. They showcased innovation, creativity, and solutions for climate change and agriculture.In his speech, Somaliland president showed his commitment, by prioritizing education, health, and nutrition, alongside legal reforms including the Juvenile Justice Law (Art. 36, 2017) and full implementation of the Child Rights Law No. 102 (2022), which calls for the establishment of a dedicated Children’s Court. Click here for more. Peacebuilding| UNDP supports youth dialogue to mark independence weekOn 1 July 2025, UNDP supported the Ministry of Youth and Sports of Somalia during the celebration of Independence Week, which brought together over 15,000 young people from across the country for a week-long series of events centered on sports, culture, and dialogue. Held under the theme "Empowering Somali Youth for Peace and Unity Through Sports and Dialogue," the initiative aimed to foster national cohesion, amplify youth voices, and promote peacebuilding through inclusive and vibrant youth engagement.Click here form more.

1 of 5

Story

10 June 2025

A round-up of activities of the UN system in Somalia in May 2025

Maritime Security | UNTMIS marks key role of women in Somali maritime sectorUNTMIS joined Somalia’s maritime sector in celebrating the International Day for Women in Maritime at an event in Mogadishu. The event highlighted the important role women play in developing Somalia’s sea-based industries, along with the need for greater female participation. In 2023, the Federal Government of Somalia, with UN support, launched the Women in the Maritime Sector (WiMS) National Action Plan, which aims to enhance and empower Somali women in the maritime sector by increasing opportunities. The UN collaborates with the Federal Government and international partners to foster legal reform, security and capacity-building for the maritime sector.Click here for more Protection | UNHCR holds training for community-based protection focal points in BeletweyneIn May, UNHCR facilitated a comprehensive training for community-based protection focal points and local authorities in Beletweyne, aimed at enhancing their capacity to identify, respond to, and refer protection cases. The training covered core protection principles, safe identification and referral mechanisms, and the importance of survivor-centred approaches. Participants included representatives from government, civil society, and displaced communities, reinforcing a collaborative approach to protection. This initiative is part of UNHCR’s broader efforts to localize protection responses and ensure that those closest to affected populations are equipped to deliver timely, safe, and dignified support. Strengthening the knowledge and skills of frontline responders remains critical in addressing the evolving protection risks in displacement-affected areas. Urban Development | IOM partners develop displacement-sensitive urban plans for Somali citiesDisplacement is a major factor driving Somalia's high urbanization rate, putting pressure on cities like Baidoa. To address this, the Danwadaag Durable Solutions Consortium, led by IOM, has developed displacement-sensitive urban plans for Baardheere, Xudur, and Berdale, aiming to create interconnected and dynamic systems. These plans, emphasizing land governance, infrastructure, and integration of displaced populations, were created collaboratively with data, local authorities, and communities, aligning with national priorities and offering a phased framework for implementation.Click here for more Food Security: FAO and the Ministry of Livestock, Forestry & Range inaugurate fodder storage and processing centres in Dhusamareb The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and Somalia’s Federal Ministry of Livestock, Forestry and Range, in coordination with Galmudug State authorities, inaugurated five fodder storage and processing facilities in Dhusamareb. FAO Representative Etienne Peterschmitt officially handed over the centers to the local community in the presence of Hon. Aden Mohamed, Deputy Minister of Livestock, and Hon. Abdullahi Abdirahmaan, Galmudug Minister of Livestock, alongside state officials, community leaders and project partners. During the mission, Dr Peterschmitt also met the Galmudug Ministers for Livestock and Planning to reaffirm shared priorities for pastoralist livelihoods. The new facilities will allow herders to produce, preserve and market high-quality fodder, narrowing dry-season feed gaps and improving herd health. Delivered through FAO’s resilience programme with support from the Governments of Denmark and Canada, the initiative promotes sustainable, climate-smart livestock production across Somalia. Health | WHO installed solar energy systems in Berbera enhancing delivery of essential health servicesThe World Health Organization with support from the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Centre has installed solar powered systems across hospitals in Berbera. Frequent power outages that have been used to affect the delivery of essential services have now been addressed. The shift to solar energy is doing more than keeping the lights on; it is energizing the city’s health system by enabling uninterrupted laboratory services, safeguarding lifesaving vaccines, and strengthening the fight against measles and polio, two of Somalia’s most persistent public health threats. Click here for more Security | UNMAS enhance Somali Police Force (SPF) explosive ordinance disposal capability On 25-28 May, UNMAS delivered training on Binary Liquid Explosives (BLE) for a group of ten participants, including Somali Police Force (SPF) Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) personnel and representatives from The HALO Trust. BLE offers a safe and effective alternative to plastic explosives for addressing explosive threats. The three-day training aimed to strengthen participants’ knowledge and skills in the safe and effective management of BLE and enhanced the preparedness of EOD teams supporting both security operations and humanitarian mine action in Somalia. The BLE training marked a significant step in the development of a Somali-led EOD response. Through continued collaboration between the SPF, UNMAS and The HALO Trust, this initiative advances national capabilities to protect communities from the threat posed by explosive hazards and enables stabilization efforts. Maternal Health | UNFPA Marks International Day to End Obstetric FistulaOn 28 May 2025, Somalia observed the International Day to End Obstetric Fistula under the theme "Her Health, Her Right: Shaping a Future Without Fistula." The event in Mogadishu gathered government officials, UN representatives, health professionals, civil society, and survivors. Dr. Mary Otieno, UNFPA Somalia Representative ai, highlighted obstetric fistula as a violation of women's rights, emphasizing the need to address poverty, early childbearing, and inadequate maternal care. State Minister Dr. Maryama Mohamed Hussein noted progress in expanding treatment access beyond a single hospital. Survivor Hamdi shared her journey from isolation to recovery, urging timely maternal care and community support. Despite ongoing challenges, the event underscored a collective commitment to eradicating fistula in Somalia.Click here for more

1 of 5

Story

05 May 2025

A round-up of activities of the UN system in Somalia in April 2025

Shelter | Strengthening land governance and tenure security for IDPS in BaidoaSupported by UN-Habitat and the Global Land Tool Network (GLTN), Baidoa Municipality has collected land data for over 750 households in Waberi and Horseed villages using the Social Tenure Domain Model (STDM). This is following a series of technical trainings held since December 2024, that have equipped the municipality’s land administration team with skills in data collection methods (using both manual and digital tools), data analysis, GIS, and participatory community engagement, laying the groundwork for more inclusive and secure land governance for internally displaced persons (IDPs).These initial outcomes also indicate improved municipal capacity to manage digital land records and increased community awareness of land rights. Investing in data collection initiatives is a strategic move for secure tenure, conflict reduction, and sustainable development. An accurate, up-to-date database is the backbone of effective land governance.Click here for more Protection | IOM opens new centre to enhance protection support for migrants in Hargeisa The International Organization for Migration (IOM) has inaugurated a new Migrant Response Centre (MRC) in Hargeisa to bolster protection and assistance for migrants in the region. This facility aims to provide essential services, including shelter, medical care, and psychosocial support to vulnerable migrants, and particularly those affected by irregular migration routes. The centre also serves as a hub for coordination among stakeholders to address migration challenges effectively. This initiative underscores the commitment to ensuring safe, orderly, and humane migration in line with international standards.Click here for more Economy| UNIDO convenes stakeholders to validate feasibility study on Public-Private Partnership (PPP) UNIDO Somalia hosted a validation workshop in Mogadishu to present and review the draft pre-feasibility study for a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model under the Jowhar Off-Stream Storage Programme (JOSP). The event brought together key stakeholders, including the Ministry of Agriculture and Irrigation, the Ministry of Energy and Water Resources of the Federal Republic of Somalia, FAO, and other partners. The workshop served as a platform to discuss the study’s findings and gather input to ensure a sustainable and inclusive PPP model that supports the long-term operation and maintenance of the JOSP infrastructure. Participants emphasized the importance of stakeholder engagement, local ownership, and private sector participation in managing the water storage and irrigation infrastructures. This initiative aims to strengthen climate resilience, boost food production, and contribute to Somalia’s agro-industrial development. The validation marks a key milestone in moving toward the implementation of a model that will have a lasting impact on the Lower Shabelle region.Click here for more Child Justice| A milestone in child justice reform: Advancing the Juvenile Justice Bill in Somalia In March 2025, Somalia’s House of the People passed the Juvenile Justice Bill, a pivotal moment in the country’s legal protections for children. Once endorsed by the Upper House, it will replace the 1960 Penal Code and Law No. 13 of 1970, which fall short of providing comprehensive protection for children. It is a culmination of years of technical and financial support from UNICEF, with support from Denmark, the Joint Programme on Human Rights Phase II, and the leadership of the Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs.The Bill profoundly shifts how the Somali child is treated and sets the age of criminal responsibility at 14. It also embraces principles of diversion, restorative justice, rehabilitation, and reintegration. Children in conflict or in contact with the law are treated with dignity, and clear guidelines on arrest, detention, legal aid, and sentencing offer them an opportunity to be reformed rather than punished.Click here for more Food Security| FAO partners launch joint initiative on the future of pastoralismFAO Somalia, in partnership with the Ministry of Livestock, Forestry and Range, and key UN and NGO partners, launched the Future of Pastoralism, a transformative initiative aimed at revitalizing pastoral livelihoods across Somalia’s arid and semi-arid lands. The initiative responds to climate shocks, recurrent droughts, and chronic vulnerability by establishing Pastoralist Development Hubs (PDHs), integrated service centres providing veterinary care, water access, markets, training, and managed rangelands. Anchored in national leadership and community ownership, the initiative is co-implemented with Action Against Hunger, IOM, WHO, and NRC. The launch was officiated by H.E. Deputy Prime Minister Abdisalam Abdi Ali, who emphasized its role in shifting from crisis response to long-term resilience. This marks one of several Joint Transformative Initiatives (JTIs) under FAO’s strategy to reduce humanitarian dependence and strengthen rural development systems, aligned with Somalia’s National Transformation Plan (2025–2029).Click here for more Health| Somalia launches lifesaving vaccines to prevent pneumonia and diarrhoea in children The Federal Republic of Somalia has introduced two lifesaving vaccines into its national immunization programme – pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV) and rotavirus vaccine – aimed at preventing pneumonia and diarrhoea in children. The country has also launched a nationwide measles catch-up campaign to combat one of the leading killers of children in the country. This integrated effort marks a major milestone in Somalia’s journey to reduce the prevalence of measles, pneumonia, and rotavirus-related diarrhoea, 3 of the most prevalent causes of disease and death in Somali children. Click here for more Protection| UNHCR sets up one-stop protection centre in BossasoIn April, UNHCR in Bossaso, in collaboration with the Puntland Ministry of Interior, Federal Affairs and Democratization (MoIFAD), inaugurated a newly constructed one-stop protection centre designed to provide comprehensive and integrated services under one roof. The facility offers legal aid, psychosocial support, registration and documentation, and case management services for refugees, asylum-seekers, internally displaced persons (IDPs), and vulnerable members of the host community.The initiative marks a key step in advancing access to critical protection services while reinforcing national ownership and sustainability of response mechanisms. By integrating services and aligning them with government structures, the centre ensures more efficient, dignified, and coordinated support to those most in need. UNHCR will continue to provide technical assistance to support the delivery of services through this platform. Click here for more Humanitarian| UNFPA supports CHF2025 in Galkayo to strengthen humanitarian coordination.In April, the UNFPA, with funding from the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA), supported the Country Humanitarian Forum, which convened in Galkayo under the Somali Disaster Management Agency (SoDMA) and the Galmudug Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs. Participants included SoDMA leadership, the DG of NIRASomalia, Federal Member State ministers, regional and city administrations, UN agencies, international donors, civil society, and the Union of Islamic Clerics. The forum focused on enhancing coordination, sustainable climate solutions, and emergency response amid poor Deyr rains, an unfavourable Gu season, and La Niña risks. As a quarterly platform, CHF2025 reviewed progress, identified challenges, and set strategic priorities for Somalia’s humanitarian response.Click here for more Political| International partners welcome the proposed platform for Somali leaders In a joint statement issued via UNTMIS, international partners welcomed President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s proposal, contained in his Eid al-Fitr message, to establish a platform for Somali political and community leaders. They said that this initiative aims to incorporate their views and efforts into the fight against terrorism and advance Somalia’s state-building goals. The partners also praised positive reactions from key political figures and urged the Federal Government, Federal Member State leaders and other stakeholders to convene swiftly, treating Al-Shabaab’s offensive as an urgent national security priority. They emphasized that rapid progress on political, constitutional, and electoral issues would strengthen international support. Click here for more Security| UNMAS strengthens the Somali National Army’s ability to address explosive ordnance threatsUNMAS Somalia successfully completed a project aimed at strengthening the Somali National Army’s (SNA) capacity to mitigate the threat posed by explosive ordnance, including improvised explosive devices (IEDs), thereby enhancing the safety and security of the people of Somalia. This included the provision of vital equipment for three newly trained SNA explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) teams, along with training materials for a team of SNA instructors. This project, funded by the Government of the UK, will significantly enhance the SNA's operational capabilities and ensure their increasing self-reliance in managing and responding to explosive hazards, ultimately contributing to the government’s long-term goal of assuming full responsibility for mitigating explosive ordnance risks. Click here for more Health| UNOPS supports the construction of the Forlanini hospitalIn April, with the support of the United Nations Office for Project Services(UNOPS), the Ministry of Health of the Federal Government of Somalia held a groundbreaking ceremony to officially launch the construction of Forlanini Hospital in Mogadishu, as part of an effort to enhance emergency response capacity at six hospitals in Somalia. Through the agreement signed between UNOPS and the Ministry of Health, funded by the World Bank, UNOPS is tasked with implementing this project. The scope includes constructing Somalia’s first cold chain facility at Forlanini Hospital and rehabilitating six regional hospitals across Somalia. The project aims to upgrade infrastructure and build emergency response capacity, including for climate emergencies. UNOPS' work includes renovations, civil works, medical equipment installation, and climate resilience measures. This initiative marks progress in healthcare infrastructure and emergency preparedness in Somalia.Click here for more Humanitarian| OCHA convenes meeting of partners to discuss reprioritization of resources In response to recent funding reductions, OCHA and the Inter-Cluster Coordination Group (ICCG) led partners to reprioritize resources to target only the 32 districts with the severe intersectoral needs. The reprioritisation will also focus on lifesaving Clusters – Food Security, Nutrition, Water and Sanitation, Health as well as Protection. Currently, the 2025 Humanitarian Needs and Response Plan is only 10 per cent funded. In response to recent funding reductions, OCHA and the Inter-Cluster Coordination Group (ICCG) led partners to reprioritize resources to target only the 32 districts with the severe intersectoral needs. The reprioritisation will also focus on lifesaving Clusters – Food Security, Nutrition, Water and Sanitation, Health as well as Protection. Currently, the 2025 Humanitarian Needs and Response Plan is only 10 per cent funded. Click here for more

1 of 5

Story

30 March 2025

A round-up of activities of the UN system in Somalia in March 2025

Employment| Somalia Launches Job Portal to Address Unemployment and Boost Economic GrowthThe Somali government has launched a national job portal to combat unemployment and drive economic growth by connecting job seekers with employers through a centralized, government-led platform. This initiative aims to improve labour market efficiency and accessibility across the country. The International Organization for Migration (IOM), in close collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs (MoLSA), provided key technical and operational support to develop and roll out the portal. This support aligns with IOM’s broader efforts to strengthen institutional capacities and promote sustainable employment opportunities in Somalia.Click here for more Economy| UNIDO and IBS showcase achievements made in expanding SME finance in Somalia At the Finance in Common Summit (FiCS) 2025 in Cape Town, organized in the framework of the South Africa Presidency of the G20, UNIDO and the International Bank of Somalia (IBS) highlighted their efforts in expanding SME access to finance in Somalia. The session on "Empowering SMEs Through Innovative Finance" emphasized the need for tailored financial models, stronger public-private collaboration, and technical assistance to unlock SME potential. Key insights included enhancing policy frameworks, leveraging technology, and mobilizing private capital through Public Development Banks (PDBs).Since 2019, UNIDO and IBS have driven financial inclusion through credit facilitation, technical support, and capacity-building. Their collaboration has empowered Somali SMEs, particularly women-led businesses, to access sustainable financing, fostering Political| UNTMIS condemns attack on President’s convoyThe United Nations in Somalia strongly condemned the terrorist attack on a convoy carrying President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud near Villa Somalia in Mogadishu, UNTMIS said in the wake of the 18 March bombing.It added that the world body’s representatives in Somalia expressed their condolences for the attack’s victims, wished a speedy recovery for the injured, and reiterated that they stand shoulder to shoulder with all Somalis against terrorism.In a subsequent statement, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres echoed UNTMIS’ response, and reaffirmed the UN’s full solidarity and support to the people and Government of Somalia in furthering efforts towards peace and stability.Click here for more Climate Action| FAO convenes Multi-Stakeholder Forum to Enhance Climate PreparednessThe Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), in collaboration with the Federal Government of Somalia (Department of Meteorology under the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change), Federal Member States, the Intergovernmental Authority on Development Climate Prediction and Applications Centre, and the World Meteorological Organization, participated in the Somalia Multi-Stakeholder Climate Outlook Forum to present the Gu 2025 seasonal climate forecast (March–May). The forum aimed to inform preparedness and coordination among humanitarian and development partners.The outlook warns of drier-than-normal conditions in most parts of Somalia—including Gedo, Hiraan, Middle Shabelle, Bakool, Bay, Galgaduud, and Mudug—with over a 50 percent chance of below-average rainfall. Above-average temperatures are also expected in Hirshabelle, Galmudug, Puntland, and Somaliland. Variable rainfall onset and extended dry periods could worsen drought conditions, impacting food security, water availability, and livelihoods. FAO urges early action, investment in drought response, and climate-resilient agricultural practices to reduce risks and protect vulnerable communities.Click here for more Protection| UNHCR supports refugee verification initiativeIn March, UNHCR, in collaboration with the Ministry of Interior, Federal Affairs and Democratization (MoIFAD) Puntland, launched a refugee verification and ID provision initiative in Galkayo North. This initiative is part of UNHCR’s mandate to protect and assist displaced populations by ensuring they are legally recognized and can access essential services such as healthcare, education, and livelihood support.Legal identity is a cornerstone of protection. The exercise also plays a critical role in strengthening data accuracy by updating records on population size, demographics, and specific needs. This enables both government and humanitarian actors to design and deliver better-targeted responses. By affirming the legal identity of refugees and enhancing their visibility within national systems, UNHCR is laying the groundwork for stronger protection, inclusion, and durable solutions.Click here for more Women Empowerment| UNFPA Champions Women’s Leadership and Participation in Somali DemocracyOn March 8, 2025, UNFPA Somalia joined UN agencies and NGOs in Mogadishu to commemorate International Women’s Day at an event organized by the Ministry of Family and Human Rights Development. The day brought together government officials, civil society, and development partners in a powerful show of solidarity for Somali women. This year’s focus on empowering women in democracy sparked vibrant discussions on the importance of inclusive governance and the need to amplify women’s voices in leadership. UNFPA remains committed to advancing gender equality and supporting Somali women and girls to lead, participate, and thrive in all aspects of society—for a more just, equitable, and sustainable future.Click here for more

1 of 5

View all

Press Release

15 July 2025

Somalia making notable progress in child immunization- Report

Mogadishu, Somalia, 15 July 2025 - The annual World Health Organization (WHO) and United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) Estimates of National Immunization Coverage (WUENIC) released today show that 70 per cent of children in Somalia are fully vaccinated, an increase of 28 per cent from 2012 to 2024, with steady improvements across all antigens since 2019. This report presents global immunization datasets on key infant and childhood vaccinations at the country level, including areas where progress has been made, opportunities that remain, and where immunization coverage has declined.Somalia has made great investments to reach this level. In 2024, the accelerated “Big Catch-Up” initiative, spearheaded by the Federal Ministry of Health and Human Services in collaboration with UNICEF and WHO, targeted ‘zero-dose’ children (who had never received a single vaccine) and children with partial (incomplete) vaccination, which is critical for child survival. This year, multiple vaccination campaigns were held, and pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV) and rotavirus vaccines were introduced to address childhood pneumonia and diarrhoea, the leading causes of death in children under five in Somalia.“Immunization is one of the most cost-effective public health interventions that prevents vaccine-preventable diseases,” said H.E. Dr. Ali Haji Adam, Minister of Health. “To continue strengthening the health system in Somalia, we must enhance the capabilities of our frontline health workers and increase efforts to create awareness in communities about life-saving vaccines. We all have more work to do.”In Somalia, routine immunization coverage was below 50 per cent for decades, hindered by ongoing conflict, displacement, inaccessibility and limited health infrastructure. These challenges have contributed to approximately 1.5 million children under 5 currently being zero-dose.“Somalia has made big strides in delivering critical vaccines to vulnerable children, no matter where they live. Through the ‘Big Catch-Up,’ nearly 700,000 zero-dose children received their first dose of pentavalent vaccine, which protects against killer diseases such as diphtheria and whooping cough. The country has also been conducting high-quality vaccination campaigns – including in coordination with neighbouring countries - in efforts to protect children from the ongoing polio outbreak, which started in 2017,” said Dr Renee Van de Weerdt, WHO Representative in Somalia.Reliable data is a crucial pillar of the health system. To strengthen data quality, UNICEF, in collaboration with WHO, supported the Federal Ministry of Health in conducting a nationwide data quality improvement exercise across all districts and health facilities. This initiative, combined with investments in the overall immunization system and advocacy efforts, resulted in a significant improvement in data quality and vaccination rates.“Investments and coordinated efforts to strengthen Somalia’s child immunisation programme are yielding high results,” said Nisar Syed, UNICEF acting Representative in Somalia. “With government leadership, UNICEF is advancing vaccine storage capacity and the ability to keep them at the right temperature. To date, 90 per cent of the health facilities providing vaccinations have been equipped with solar-powered refrigeration. Together with the Ministries of Health, our dedicated partners and resilient health workers, children are being reached with life-saving vaccines, even in some of the most difficult and hard-to-reach places.”The 2024 WUENIC estimates that the number of zero-dose children decreased in countries, like Somalia, that are supported by Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance. This evidence underscores the importance of investing in immunization. Key partners, including the Global Polio Eradication Initiative, the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, the World Bank, and the Gates Foundation, have been instrumental in improving child survival. Now is the time to build on these gains and sustain the momentum, as the world works toward the Immunization Agenda 2030, which aims to ensure that everyone, everywhere, at every age, fully benefits from vaccines to improve health and well-being.

1 of 5

Press Release

23 April 2025

Somalia launches lifesaving vaccines to prevent pneumonia and diarrhoea in children

The Federal Republic of Somalia has introduced 2 lifesaving vaccines into its national immunization programme – pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV) and rotavirus vaccine – aimed at preventing pneumonia and diarrhoea in children. The country has also launched a nationwide measles catch-up campaign to combat one of the leading killers of children in the country.This integrated effort marks a major milestone in Somalia’s journey to reduce the prevalence of measles, pneumonia and rotavirus-related diarrhoea, 3 of the most prevalent causes of disease and death in Somali children.The Somali Ministry of Health and Human Services is leading this effort with support from Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, the World Health Organization (WHO) and the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF). It comes at a critical time, as Somalia grapples with persistent measles outbreaks and deaths caused by pneumonia and rotavirus-related diarrhoea. Together, measles, pneumonia, and diarrhea account for an estimated 43% of child deaths in the country.“The introduction of these 2 vaccines and the launch of the measles catch-up campaign marks a significant step forward in our national effort to reduce child deaths and build a healthier future for Somalia’s next generation,” said Somalia’s Federal Minister of Health Dr Ali Haji Adam. “The government is committed to investing in the health of our children and strengthening our immunization services in partnership with global and regional health partners.”Pneumococcal infections can cause serious conditions such as pneumonia, meningitis and septicemia. Rotavirus is a leading cause of severe diarrhoea and dehydration, contributing significantly to malnutrition and mortality in children. Countries that have introduced PCV into their routine immunization programmes have reported marked declines in hospitalizations and deaths among children.This milestone is made possible through Gavi’s revised support framework for fragile, emergency-affected and displaced populations, which offers flexible and targeted assistance to countries like Somalia where immunization systems have been weakened by recurring crises.“We commend the Federal Ministry of Health, frontline health and community workers and other stakeholders involved for their commitment to introduce these 2 critical vaccines amid multiple competing priorities,” says Gavi’s Senior Country Manager for Somalia Patience Musanhu. “Given the burden of these diseases in Somalia, this is an investment well worth making, one that will save lives and have a transformative impact on health and development, families, communities and the health system. Gavi remains committed to working with the government and partners to support the vision of a healthier, more prosperous future for Somalia.” The measles catch-up campaign is designed to rapidly close immunity gaps among children who have missed routine vaccinations due to insecurity, displacement and service disruptions. The campaign aims to reach millions of children across the country, protecting them from one of the most contagious and deadly vaccine-preventable diseases.“This is more than just a vaccine launch, it is a promise to Somalia’s children that their lives matter, their health matters,” said WHO Representative a.i in Somalia Dr Kamil Mohamed Ali. “For years, we have witnessed too many young lives lost to diseases. With these new vaccines and the measles catch-up campaign we are turning the tide and reaffirming our commitment to equity, access and a healthier future for all.”“The introduction of these 2 vaccines is a big win for children in Somalia,” said UNICEF Representative Wafaa Saeed. “By this action, and with the measles campaign, we will be preventing nearly half of the deaths that occur every year among young children in Somalia, sparing families from the grief and sorrow of losing their loved ones. These children will be given an opportunity to grow up, realize their dreams and contribute to their nation’s progress.” The integrated launch reflects the strong collaboration between the Somali Government and its health partners in expanding equitable access to essential health services. Together, they are working to protect every child in Somalia from preventable diseases and lay the foundation for a more resilient and healthier future.

1 of 5

Press Release

09 April 2025

The Federal Government of Somalia, United Nations launch Joint Initiative - Food Systems for Somalia Project.

Mogadishu, 9 April 2025 - The Federal Government of Somalia, in collaboration with the United Nations today launched a two-year programme aimed at strengthening food systems in Somalia.The joint programme HIT Food Systems for Somalia Project, to be implemented by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP), marks a milestone in Somalia’s journey to strengthen food systems governance, integrate social protection, and enhance resilience through nutrition-sensitive and climate-adaptive approaches. Delivering the key remarks at the launch event, the Deputy Prime Minister, His Excellency, Mr. Salah Ahmed Jama highlighted transforming food systems is critical to Somalia’s state-building efforts. “Our journey to transform food systems is deeply tied to Somalia’s broader nation-building efforts. As we advance toward debt relief, recovery, and long-term development, food systems must be at the heart of our resilience architecture. This means securing long-term financing for food systems investments, building public-private partnerships that prioritize local markets and empower communities, especially women and youth, as agents of transformation. This Joint programme funded by SDG Fund lays the foundation for these aspirations,” Speaking at the event, UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator for Somalia, Mr. George Conway emphasized the UN's collective commitment to supporting Somalia's food systems efforts.“Addressing food insecurity in Somalia requires a whole-of-system approach to food systems. The aim of this programme is to have a transformative and catalytic impact, significantly advancing national food security and self-reliance in Somalia. We are pleased that it fully aligns with the Government of Somalia's vision outlined in the National Transformation Plan 2025-2029,” said Mr. George Conway.The programme will directly support 28 000 people with 10 000 people (government staff, community leaders, service providers), reached through capacity building both at the subnational and national levels in the target locations. FAO Head of Programme, Ezana Kassa, stated the importance of joint programming in transforming agrifood systems.“This joint programme is a key step in operationalizing Somalia’s National Food Systems Pathways by linking nutrition-sensitive, climate-adaptive social protection with resilient agrifood systems. By strengthening governance, inclusive engagement, and data-driven decision-making, we aim to build a more sustainable and equitable future. Integrating climate-smart livelihoods, early warning, and financial inclusion will help transform food systems to be more resilient, inclusive, and efficient—leaving no one behind”.National and local policies related to food systems and social protection will potentially benefit all citizens, particularly the most vulnerable and food insecure populations, especially with 4.6 million people in Somalia could face crisis hunger by June 2025. WFP Somalia Deputy Country Director Marco Selva, weighed in, saying “Somalia faces multiple, interconnected challenges—food insecurity, economic fragility, and social vulnerabilities—that threaten lives, livelihoods, and long-term development. This SDG-funded joint programme is a partnership between UN agencies and the Government, investing in long-term solutions and food systems transformation to create greater collective impact and enhance the well-being and resilience of communities in Somalia”The joint programme will provide economic inclusion support—including skills development and livelihood assistance—to approximately 8 000 participants identified through the Unified Social Register. The focus will be on the most vulnerable individuals, including pregnant and lactating women, unemployed youth, female-headed households, children living with disabilities, as well as smallholder farmers with productive capacity.

1 of 5

Press Release

25 February 2025

Drought, conflict and high food prices could push 4.4 million people into hunger, the Federal Government of Somalia and UN warn

MOGADISHU, Somalia, 26 February 2025 - New data from Somalia shows that 4.4 million people could face hunger by April 2025, driven by worsening drought conditions, conflict and high food prices.The Federal Government of Somalia and the United Nations agencies warn that without adequate funding for humanitarian action, the country - which in 2022 was pushed to the brink of famine by severe drought, resulting in thousands of deaths, with nearly half being children - could once again face deepening hunger. Today’s warning from the Somali Disaster Management Agency (SoDMA), the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and the UN World Food Programme (WFP) comes as the latest Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) analysis shows that 3.4 million people are already experiencing crisis-levels, or higher, of hunger in Somalia (IPC3+). This number is projected to rise to 4.4 million (23 per cent of the population) between April and June 2025, when below-average Gu rains are forecast. "Worsening drought poses a severe threat to communities already grappling with immense hardship and ongoing conflict. Urgent action is required to save lives, protect livelihoods, and prevent further suffering," said His Excellency Mohamuud Moallim, Commissioner of the Somali Disaster Management Agency (SoDMA). "This time, we are not only confronting the devastating impacts of drought but also compounding risks, including conflict and an unprecedented decline in humanitarian funding. These overlapping crises demand immediate, collective and well-coordinated action to strengthen Somalia’s resilience and safeguard our most vulnerable communities."The hardest-hit households include those with low agricultural yields who have depleted their food stocks, internally displaced persons (IDPs), and pastoralists with limited livestock and below-average earnings from livestock sales.“Worsening drought, erratic rainfall, and ongoing conflict are eroding livelihoods, pushing families deeper into crisis,” said FAO Somalia Country Representative Etienne Peterschmitt. “FAO is responding by scaling up its support for increased agricultural production, promoting climate-smart solutions, and strengthening resilient agrifood systems. Through early warning systems and anticipatory action, we help communities prepare for shocks before they escalate, mitigating the worst impacts of food crises.”Acute funding shortfalls have resulted in life-saving programmes being reduced or cut altogether. The UN is calling for more urgent funding to scale up food assistance, nutrition support, water and sanitation services, as well as livelihood initiatives to mitigate the impacts of the expected drought in Somalia. Today, the 2025 Somalia Humanitarian Needs and Response Plan, calling for US$1.42 billion, is only 12.4 per cent funded.“Recurrent climate shocks, protracted conflict, disease outbreaks and widespread poverty, among other factors, have aggravated the humanitarian crisis in Somalia. Aid agencies are doing their best to save lives, but they urgently need adequate funding to meet the most critical needs at this juncture in Somalia,” said Crispen Rukasha, Head of Office, OCHA Somalia. An estimated 1.7 million children under the age of five face acute malnutrition through December 2025. Of those, 466,000 face severe acute malnutrition – an increase of nine per cent compared to the same period last year. Nearly two-thirds (64 per cent) of the total malnutrition burden is concentrated in southern Somalia, where drought conditions and insecurity are the worst."Past climate events demonstrate that children are the most affected, facing severe malnourishment and diseases that increase their risk of death and long-term developmental issues," said Nisar Syed, UNICEF Somalia Representative Officer in Charge. "As prevention is key, UNICEF provides access to clean water and sanitation, provides micronutrients, trains caregivers to identify early signs of malnutrition and operates in remote areas. Given the recurring nature of these crises, we must emphasize a multi-sector approach while working with all stakeholders and the Government to invest in resilience, anticipatory action and a robust health system."The IPC findings also confirm that erratic rainfall in 2024 led to low crop yields, rapid depletion of pasture and water sources, flooding of food crops, and displacement of hundreds of thousands of people.“Recurrent shocks such as droughts are leaving millions of Somalis at risk of hunger as food prices increase and harvests dwindle. Famine was narrowly avoided in 2022 due to large-scale humanitarian support, which is needed again to provide immediate assistance while implementing longer-term solutions. However, funding shortfalls are forcing us to prioritize and reduce assistance at the worst possible time,” said El-Khidir Daloum, WFP’s Country Director in Somalia.

1 of 5

View all