MOGADISHU (KAAB TV) – Somalia is facing a deepening humanitarian crisis, with nearly half of all children under the age of five at risk of severe malnutrition by July 2026, according to a newly released report from the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC).
The alarming projection is driven by a combination of interlinked challenges, including extreme weather events, ongoing armed conflict, soaring food prices, and a significant reduction in international funding for health and nutrition services.
A Growing Humanitarian Emergency
The IPC report estimates that approximately 4.4 million Somalis—nearly 25% of the country’s population—will face high levels of food insecurity by the end of 2025. Within this group, 921,000 individuals are expected to fall into IPC Phase 4 (Emergency), the second most severe level of food crisis classification. Without urgent humanitarian assistance, these people are at imminent risk of starvation and loss of livelihood.
Children at the Forefront of the Crisis
Perhaps most concerning is the situation of Somalia’s youngest citizens. Between August 2025 and July 2026, up to 1.85 million children under five are projected to suffer from acute malnutrition, marking a 9% increase from earlier estimates. This includes hundreds of thousands of children at risk of life-threatening conditions such as severe wasting.
Since June, more than 55,000 children have lost access to critical nutrition services, following the closure of health and nutrition centers due to funding cuts. This disruption has significantly hindered efforts to provide life-saving care and prevent malnutrition-related deaths.
Rise in Preventable Diseases
The crisis is further compounded by a sharp decline in routine childhood immunizations, which has led to a resurgence of preventable diseases, including a recent outbreak of diphtheria in several regions. Health officials warn that the lack of vaccines and essential medical supplies is contributing to a deteriorating public health situation, especially among displaced and vulnerable populations.
Climate Extremes and Conflict Fueling the Crisis
Southern Somalia remains the hardest-hit region, suffering from the dual impacts of prolonged droughts and seasonal floods, both intensified by climate change. Ongoing armed conflict in these areas further complicates humanitarian access and disrupts local food production and distribution networks.
The IPC warns that without immediate and sustained international support, the crisis will continue to spiral, putting millions at risk and threatening long-term development gains in the country.
Call for Urgent Action
Humanitarian agencies are urging donors to step up funding and coordination to avert a full-scale famine. Key priorities include scaling up food assistance, restoring health and nutrition services, and supporting climate-resilient agricultural practices.
The coming months are critical. Without swift intervention, Somalia could face one of the worst child malnutrition emergencies in its recent history.