Aid Cuts and Drought Deepen Hunger Crisis in Somalia’s Kismayo IDP Camps
Three seasons of failed rains have doubled malnutrition across southern Somalia. Maryam lost two children to starvation before fleeing her home along the Jubba River. She joined more than 300,000 people displaced this year and now struggles to feed her remaining six children in a camp outside Kismayo. Aid cuts ordered last year forced several NGOs to suspend operations in the Kismayo displacement camps. In March alone, camp officials reported five child deaths from severe malnutrition. With 200 health centres and 400 schools closed nationwide, families are left with few places to seek help. A single mobile clinic supported by an international charity serves multiple camps in the region. Even Kismayo’s main hospital now turns away malnourished infants for lack of space and staff. Rising fuel prices have driven up the cost of food, water and basic transport, deepening the crisis. This tragedy is a stark reminder of the human cost of conflict, climate shocks and cuts in humanitarian aid. Nigerians who enjoy peace and stability should take note and work to prevent similar failures at home.
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