Somalia Drought Forces 62,000 People to Flee Homes as Climate Crisis Accelerates
Mogadishu, 25 April 2026
Three-quarters of all new displacement in Somalia this year stems from drought, marking a dramatic 22% increase from 2025. The International Organization for Migration reports that 62,000 people have abandoned their homes across five districts since January, with experts projecting another 125,000 could face displacement by June. Rural families are flooding into overcrowded urban centres as water sources vanish and crops fail, straining city resources beyond capacity. The crisis particularly threatens children’s access to education whilst livestock deaths eliminate income sources for pastoral communities, creating a devastating cycle of poverty and vulnerability across the Horn of Africa.
Five Districts Bear the Brunt of Water Scarcity
The hardest-hit areas include Baidoa, Dayniile, Kahda, Diinsoor, and Doolow, where below-average rainfall during the 2025 Deyr season and a harsh Jilaal dry period have depleted water sources and reduced agricultural production [1]. Data from the International Organization for Migration’s Displacement Tracking Matrix reveals that drought now accounts for three out of every four new displacements, representing a 22 per cent increase from 2025 [1][2]. This escalation underscores the growing severity of climate shocks affecting the region, with Manuel Pereira, Chief of Mission for IOM Somalia, warning that “drought is already forcing tens of thousands of people from their homes, and many more could be displaced in the months ahead” [1].
Urban Centres Strain Under Displacement Pressure
Pastoral and farming families are moving to towns and cities in search of food and water, placing enormous strain on urban resources [2]. Displacement sites and informal settlements face overcrowding, limited access to safe water and sanitation, and inadequate shelter [1]. The crisis has created a dire situation where urban centres in Somalia are struggling to cope with the influx of displaced families, leading to overcrowded settlements and increased disease risk [2]. IOM is providing emergency shelter and life-saving supplies through its Rapid Support Mechanism, including water, non-food items, and essential assistance to newly displaced families [1][2]. However, drought-driven displacement and food insecurity are rapidly exceeding available resources [1].
Economic Devastation Compounds Humanitarian Crisis
The drought’s impact extends beyond immediate displacement, creating long-term economic devastation for affected communities. Declining livestock herds result in loss of income, food, and resilience against future shocks for households [1]. As Pereira explains, “when water disappears, crops fail and livelihoods collapse, displacement becomes a last resort” [2]. This economic destruction creates a devastating cycle where families lose not only their homes but also their primary sources of income and sustenance, making recovery increasingly difficult even when conditions improve.
Grim Projections Signal Worsening Crisis Ahead
The situation is expected to deteriorate significantly in the coming months, with experts projecting another 125,000 people could be displaced by June 2026 as water sources continue to dry up [2]. IOM warns that drought is expected to persist, calling for urgent and sustained support to address the crisis [1]. Without swift action, the organisation cautions that drought will continue to uproot communities, deepen hunger and increase vulnerability across Somalia, particularly for the most vulnerable populations [1]. The crisis highlights the urgent need for long-term investment in water infrastructure to build resilience against future climate shocks [2].