Somalia
Hunger from Conflict & Climate
Ongoing conflict and drought has brought Somalia into famine multiple times. WFP is providing emergency food aid to avert the next hunger crisis.
Make a difference in Somalia
Hunger Stats
4.6 Million
people face crisis levels of food insecurity.
1.8 Million
children under 5 facing acute malnutrition
54%
live below the poverty line
Somalia Facts
New York
Show Places
New York
Population: 19 million
Background: Somalia gained independence in 1960. In 1991, the central government collapsed and led to decades of internal conflict.
Geography & Climate: Somalia is located in the Horn of Africa. Its terrain is mostly arid plains and plateaus. The country has a hot, dry desert climate, with frequent droughts and erratic rainfall that make agriculture and water access highly challenging.
Economy: Somalia’s economy is largely informal and pastoralist. Unemployment is widespread, and 54% of the population live below the poverty line.
Causes of Hunger
History of Hunger
1980s
Recurring droughts through multiple years triggered famine conditions. WFP responded with emergency food aid.
1991-
The central government collapsed and resulted in internal conflict, causing widespread displacement, famine, and insecurity.
2010-2012
Years of conflict, compounded by drought, led to famine in 2011, which killed over 250,000 people and displaced over a million. WFP scaled up in one of the largest humanitarian responses.
2016-2017
A severe drought caused extreme hunger. The country came close to famine, but was narrowly averted by WFP's emergency food assistance.
2022-2023
The longest drought on record drove Somalia to the brink of famine, but WFP intervention helped to avert it.
WFP’s Work in Somalia
As the largest humanitarian agency in Somalia, WFP rapidly responds during disasters to help families meet their basic needs.
Emergency Relief
WFP saves lives by providing food and cash assistance to crisis-affected communities, even in insecure areas where access is challenging.
Nutrition
WFP provides specially fortified foods to help treat and prevent malnutrition in children and pregnant and breastfeeding women.
School Meals
WFP provides children with school meals. These meals provide critical nutrition for students as well as a safety net for families in crisis.
Latest News From Somalia
- News Release
- October 3, 2025
- News Release
- November 14, 2023
- News Release
- May 24, 2023