11,000 families displaced
66,000 individuals affected
Approximately 9,000 children under 18 among the displaced
No deaths reported
No injuries reported
Location coordinates: 5.3516° N, 48.5250° E
Incident occurred on January 31, 2026

Somalia is facing an ongoing and severe drought, caused by consecutive unsuccessful rainy seasons, extreme temperatures, and environmental deterioration. In Hobyo District, these circumstances have led to the exhaustion of grazing areas and the drying up of vital water sources, including shallow wells, traditional wells, water pans, and berkads. The deterioration of pastoralist and agro-pastoralist livelihoods has been extensive, characterized by substantial livestock deaths and decreased household earnings. Rural inhabitants have been compelled to abandon their homes in search of water, grazing land, and necessary services.

The villages most severely impacted are Bajeela, Wargalo, Ceelguula, Gawaan, Ceeldibir, Xaaro, Kalasooc, GalBarwaaqo, and Xero-Dahab. Uprooted families have relocated to Ceel‑Ducaale, Wasil, Ceelguula, Ceeldibir, and Hobyo town, where availability of basic services and humanitarian aid is considered comparatively improved. According to Protection and Solutions Monitoring Network (PSMN) partners’ records, approximately 11,000 households (66,000 individuals) have been displaced due to the persistent drought and worsening living conditions throughout Hobyo District. Of the affected population, approximately 9,000 are individuals under 18 years of age.

Furthermore, the presence of Al-Shabaab in the original areas and along displacement routes continues to impede civilian movement, restrict service accessibility, and heighten protection concerns. The combined effects of drought and instability are causing continuous and increasing displacement within Hobyo district.