The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) has announced an additional $29 million in funding aimed at building resilience and improving food security for the nation’s most vulnerable populations.

The funding, part of two new five-year projects, marks the first installment in a broader strategy to assist approximately 80,000 vulnerable households. These include internally displaced persons (IDPs) and host community members in South Central Somalia. The initiative seeks to support marginalized households in developing sustainable livelihoods, enhancing access to essential services such as health and nutrition, and strengthening their capacity to endure future shocks.

Somalia faces a dire humanitarian crisis, with an estimated 6.9 million people requiring aid in 2024. This dire situation stems from a combination of factors, including severe weather events, persistent insecurity, disease outbreaks, and widespread poverty.

The 2023 El Niño phenomenon exacerbated the crisis, causing excessive rains and devastating floods. These natural disasters resulted in significant displacement, destruction of property, and loss of livelihoods. Furthermore, cholera and other waterborne diseases surged, disproportionately affecting the most vulnerable populations.

The newly announced funding builds on USAID’s extensive humanitarian efforts in Somalia, where the agency has provided nearly $2.3 billion in assistance since Fiscal Year 2022. By addressing recurrent disasters such as droughts and floods, USAID has played a critical role in mitigating conflict-related needs and combating hunger and food insecurity.

The latest projects, implemented in collaboration with partners World Vision and Save the Children, focus on equipping vulnerable households with resources to improve resilience. In addition to supporting sustainable livelihoods, the programs aim to connect affected communities with vital water, sanitation, and hygiene services.

This initiative aligns with USAID’s broader objective of fostering resilience in the face of climate change and recurring natural disasters. By strengthening local capacities and providing essential support, the U.S. government underscores its commitment to helping Somalia navigate the challenges of today while building a more secure and sustainable future.

As Somalia continues to grapple with complex crises, this additional support represents a significant step forward in addressing immediate needs and laying the groundwork for long-term recovery and resilience.