This is a climate-induced slow-onset humanitarian crisis, driven by prolonged drought and worsening environmental degradation. The drought has caused the failure of water sources, depletion of pasture, and massive livestock deaths, affecting livelihoods and food security.
Social and political implications include:
- Displacement of pastoralist households in search of water and aid
- Marginalization of vulnerable groups (women, children, elderly)
- Increased pressure on already overstretched public services
- Risk of tension over scarce water resources between communities
The government of Somaliland has declared a national drought emergency (30 July 2025), forming a Drought Response Committee to coordinate aid. The declaration calls for urgent support from the international community and Somaliland diaspora.
DERF - Danish Emergency Relief Fund
Alert note: Drought Emergency in Somaliland
International Aid Services (IAS) has submitted an alert due to drought in Somaliland.
