Background
Severe drought is impacting extensive areas of central and northern Somalia, specifically the regions of Nugaal, Mudug, Bari and Sanaag. The unsuccessful Gu rainy season has caused key water sources, such as birkas, shallow wells and boreholes, to dry up. Rising food insecurity, diminished water and pasture access, and substantial disruptions to livelihoods and farming have heightened community vulnerability. The extensive loss of livestock has severely affected pastoralist communities across these regions.

The Protection and Solutions Monitoring Network (PSMN), which is monitoring displacement patterns in affected areas, has documented approximately 4,857 households (29,142 individuals) displaced between October 21 and November 4, 2025. Displaced people are traveling to districts in West Mudug Region, including Hobyo, Bursaalah and Galdogob, which received limited rainfall during the previous Gu season. Further reports indicate 1,825 households have crossed into Ethiopia, primarily moving toward Galhamur, Bokh and Galaddi districts in Doolo Zone, seeking water and pasture.

Newly displaced families have established temporary settlements in rural villages, where community leaders are organizing movements and directing new arrivals to areas with improved access to water and grazing lands. Leaders are also educating families about safe border crossings and warning them to avoid high-risk zones, especially the southeastern portions of Galdogob, where clan conflicts have been noted.