Mogadishu — The Commissioner of the Somali Disaster Management Agency (SoDMA) today briefed the Upper House of the Federal Parliament on the rapidly worsening drought affecting large parts of the country.

The SoDMA Commissioner warned that the drought has reached a critical stage and is placing severe pressure on the lives and livelihoods of millions of Somalis. The Commissioner emphasized the urgent need for immediate humanitarian assistance and a unified national response.

The Commissioner explained that Somalia has missed several consecutive rainy seasons, resulting in widespread water shortages, the drying up of major water sources, and increasingly difficult living conditions in drought-affected communities. The Commissioner underscored the importance of solidarity from the Somali public and sustained support from international partners to assist those most affected.

The SoDMA Commissioner further revealed that more than 4.7 million people are currently facing severe drought conditions, while nearly 600 wells have dried up nationwide. In some areas, the Commissioner noted, a barrel of water is selling for up to $50, placing it well beyond the reach of vulnerable households.

Concluding the briefing, the SoDMA Commissioner called on government institutions, the business community, religious leaders, and the wider Somali society to intensify relief efforts and strengthen support for communities affected by the ongoing drought.

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