Somalia faces hunger crisis and climate risks as AfDB pledges $19 million

Somalia is facing a compounding humanitarian crisis as the country prepares for severe flooding following consecutive seasons of drought and conflict. Approximately six million people, or one in three Somalis, are experiencing crisis levels of hunger. Humanitarian organizations warn that the situation is at a breaking point, with malnutrition rates high among children in southern regions and aid funding currently 70 per cent underfunded.

To address climate-related vulnerabilities, the African Development Bank (AfDB) has announced approximately $19 million in new financing through the Africa Disaster Risk Financing Program (ADRiFi). This funding aims to strengthen Somalia’s capacity to prepare for and respond to droughts, floods, and other climate disasters. The project will be implemented jointly by the AfDB, the Somali Disaster Management Agency (SoDMA), and the Ministry of Finance.

This initiative builds on previous climate resilience efforts, including a $35 million regional project and various grants aimed at improving water access and agricultural adaptation. Forecasters warn that the upcoming rainy season, potentially amplified by El Niño, could bring flooding levels comparable to those seen in 2023.