Over 5,000 pastoralist families have fled to Godinlabe in central Somalia after losing their livestock to severe drought, straining local services and prompting urgent UN appeals for humanitarian assistance.

The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) reports that more than 5,000 pastoralist families have arrived in Somalia’s Godinlabe town over the last two months following livestock losses due to drought, overwhelming local authorities and depleting scarce food, water, and shelter resources.

According to OCHA, the population influx follows consecutive failed rainy seasons across the Galgadud region, which have destroyed livestockthe main source of sustenance and income for pastoral communities.

“Newly displaced families are fleeing the current drought from various regions,” stated Godinlabe administration Secretary Abdirahaman Abdullahi, as quoted by OCHA.

“Their displacement results from the loss of livestock and livelihoods, compelling them to relocate near available water sources.”

The official noted that the recent arrivals have exacerbated existing displacement, with some families establishing shelters alongside previously displaced persons. Minimal humanitarian assistance has forced residents to depend on small contributions from relatives or local vendors, while authorities caution that conditions will worsen without immediate support.

Numerous families have reportedly established temporary settlements in open areas surrounding the town, heightening the risk of malnutrition and disease and intensifying pressure on already strained services.

“We have been living outdoors for a month without substantial assistance. We prepare one meal daily, and even that food is insufficient. Some days we receive no food at all, which has severely affected the children,” stated one recent arrival, Mahmoud Mohamed Jimale.

“The food we obtain is inadequate for our large family. On certain days, the children remain hungry, causing me continuous concern,” added Shafi Ahmed Yassin.

OCHA also indicated that over 8,000 additional individuals have been displaced from neighboring villages in the Adado and Harardhere districts due to lack of rainfall, highlighting the expanding scope of the crisis. Children and elderly persons represent the most vulnerable groups, as food, water, and basic healthcare shortages increase susceptibility to illness.

The UN organization has requested immediate intervention, emphasizing that prompt aid delivery is essential to prevent further displacement and reduce the drought’s effects.