Early Action Saves lives: In Somali Region, Anticipatory Action helps families meet their most urgent needs

Ruqia recalls the devastating tolls of previous dry seasons. “There was abundant rainfall before. We had prosperity,” she recalls. “But for the past three years, there has been no rain. Livestock are sent out to graze, yet they return having consumed nothing. Even camels are suffering.”

In February 2026, detailed forecast analysis flagged escalating drought risks across Ethiopia’s Somali Region. While generalized seasonal forecasts often miss localized impacts, objective, area‑specific modelling identified seven woredas projected to cross thresholds for severe drought if no action was taken. The Government of the Somali Region, Ethiopia, in collaboration with the World Food Programme (WFP),then activated the anticipatory action mechanism to address escalating drought risks

Anticipatory action goes beyond responding to disasters after the damage is done. Instead, it focuses on breaking the cycle of vulnerability, enabling people to prepare, and shifting from crisis management to risk management.

Working closely with the Ethiopian Meteorology Institute (EMI), WFP supports the development of location‑specific forecasts that capture early warning signals at woreda level—ensuring that communities most at risk are not overlooked. 

In early March, WFP, government counterparts, and financial service providers worked hand in hand to deliver anticipatory cash assistance to families before the drought eroded their remaining assets.

For Ruqiya, the timing proved critical.

“We received the money here in the kebele,” she explains. “WFP brought the cash through the bank. We receive it by bringing our QR code card.”

Each targeted family received USD 296 giving them the flexibility to meet their most urgent needs, maintain sufficient food consumption, protect livestock, and minimize losses. Beyond immediate relief, this anticipatory action strengthens community readiness for future droughts, ensuring families do not fall into emergency food insecurity.For Ruqiya, the impact was immediate. The cash meant her family could eat, but it also meant something less visible and equally important: the ability to plan.

This life‑saving intervention in Somali Region was made possible through the generous support of the Government of Germany, whose commitment to early action is helping ensure that drought does not entail disaster.

As the dry season continues, families in the drought affected areas of the Somali region still face uncertainty. But thanks to anticipatory action, they are mitigating the impact of climate change when it matters the most.