Additional funds urgently required to prevent loss of lives, rebuild livelihoods in Somali Region

The Ethiopia Humanitarian Country Team (EHCT) led by the UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator, Dr. Catherine Sozi, conducted a field visit to Shabelle Zone of Somali region from 29 - 31 March. 

The team interacted with the President of Somali Region and with regional and local authorities, affected populations and other partners on the humanitarian situation in the area as well as on the ongoing response, gaps and challenges in the region.

The delegation conduct site visits to Higlo and Gabicas sites as well as Gode Hospital.

The United Nations, along with partners on the ground, is supporting affected families with food, water, nutrition and other non-food needs. However, more funding is urgently required to address the growing needs of the affected population, including internally displaced persons and the host community.

An ensuing flood that could occur during the upcoming rainy season will also require a coordinated response and immense resources to prevent and protect the communities already being severely impacted by the drought. 

Meanwhile, much-needed preparations to enable and support timely response to the ongoing dire humanitarian situation, to activities on resilience building and to climate adaption are critical for alleviating the impact of the drought. 

Three consecutive below average rainy seasons have resulted in the deterioration of the humanitarian situation in ten zones of the region, affecting an estimated 3.5 million people (55% of the regional population). At least one million livestock deaths have already been reported in the Somali region due to lack of animal feed and water. 

The UN is working to enhance coordination among all actors to scale up the response in the region.