The United Kingdom has announced £5 million in new humanitarian funding to assist vulnerable communities in Somalia in preparing for anticipated El Niño-related flooding. This funding is designated for the October to December Deyr rainy season.
The initiative aims to bolster early warning systems, facilitate the relocation of families to safer areas, and ensure the continued availability of essential health, nutrition, and water services for communities affected by flooding. This includes support for people residing in nearly 100 internally displaced person (IDP) camps, the provision of mobile health services, and efforts to safeguard livelihoods in flood-prone regions such as Jowhar and Beletweyne.
Up to 600,000 people are expected to benefit from these services, which also include sanitation and protection. The funding will help keep up to 71 health facilities operational and reach communities that may be displaced or cut off by floods.
Chris Pycroft, Development Director at the British Embassy Mogadishu, stated that acting early means families can move to safety, essential services can remain available, and livelihoods can be protected. He added that investing now can save lives and help Somali communities withstand future climate shocks.
The announcement was made on 23 September at the Country Humanitarian Forum in Mogadishu, an event that brought together the Somali government, humanitarian organisations, and international partners to enhance preparedness for the anticipated flooding. This £5 million is part of the UK's broader £15 million announcement to support countries most at risk from El Niño.