In the Horn of Africa, plagued by the worst drought in decades, needs outstrip capacities and an urgent and effective humanitarian response is crucial to avert large-scale deterioration, says the International Organization for Migration (IOM).

Estimates tell us that 15 million people are severely affected by drought in Kenya, Ethiopia and Somalia. The unprecedented impacts of several failed rainy seasons threaten to create a humanitarian crisis in a region already affected by other shocks such as climate change, conflict and insecurity, extreme weather conditions and negative socio-economic impacts of Covid-19.

Under these conditions, the risk of starvation and malnutrition is high as the food security situation deteriorates rapidly. Tens of thousands of families are forced to leave their homes in search of food, water and pasture, increasing pressure on already limited natural resources.

Moreover, the drought has increased the risk of inter-communal conflict, with agricultural communities and pastoral communities competing for dwindling water supplies.

To assist the people of this region, IOM works closely with governments, other UN agencies and partners in each country, but needs exceed capacities due to limited resources. Therefore, additional funding is urgently needed to save lives and livelihoods, mitigate further displacement and avert greater needs in the future.

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