MSF Reports Surge in Malnutrition and Preventable Diseases in Somalia

Somalia is currently experiencing a critical health and nutrition crisis. Consecutive failed rainy seasons, coupled with skyrocketing water prices and major cuts to humanitarian assistance, have led to rising malnutrition and outbreaks of preventable diseases, according to Doctors Without Borders (MSF).

Surge in Malnutrition and Disease Outbreaks

MSF reports a troubling increase in the number of children presenting at overcrowded camps with severe acute malnutrition. Specifically, there have been significant cases of measles, diphtheria, and acute watery diarrhea. These diseases are preventable, yet the situation continues to worsen.

Worsening Conditions for Families

Allara Ali, MSF’s project coordinator in Somalia, stated that children arrive in critical condition after enduring long journeys without food or water. The Somali government declared a drought emergency in November; however, a timely response has not materialized as funding has plummeted to its lowest level in ten years.

Food Insecurity and Displacement

• UN assessments warn that 4.4 million people could face severe food shortages by the end of 2025.
• 1.85 million children under five are at risk of acute malnutrition.
• Over 3.3 million people have been displaced, with many living in camps in Baidoa and Mudug.

MSF has recorded alarming statistics in Baidoa, where admissions for severe acute malnutrition rose by 48% in October compared to the previous month. Furthermore, during the same time frame, 189 children were treated for suspected measles, of whom 95% had not been vaccinated. In Mudug, inpatient treatments for malnutrition increased by 35%.

Water Crisis and Disease Risk

Displacement camps are witnessing severe water shortages, with the cost of a 200-liter barrel of water rising between $2.50 and $4. Many families cannot afford these prices, complicating their access to clean water and increasing the risk of disease.

• Kaltuma Kerow, a 35-year-old resident of a displaced persons camp in Baidoa, shared that her family struggles with food and water shortages, heightening their fear of cholera.
• Rahma Mohamed Ibrahim from Galkayo mentioned that her family’s repeated displacements have led to malnutrition among her eight children.

The family often chooses between paying $4 for clean water or 25 cents for a jerrycan of salty water, which leads to illness.

MSF’s Emergency Response

In light of the urgent need, MSF initiated emergency water trucking in Baidoa in December, delivering over 6 million liters of safe drinking water to 17 sites by mid-January. Additionally, they installed water bladders and solar lighting to improve access.

Need for Coordinated Action

Despite these efforts, aid workers stress the importance of a comprehensive response to the crisis. Elshafie Mohamed, MSF’s country representative in Somalia, called the current situation “unacceptable.” He urged for an immediate increase in nutrition programs, vaccination initiatives, and water service improvements.

Without a coordinated, multi-sector response, the looming threat of preventable deaths is likely to rise in the coming months as conditions continue to deteriorate.