The East African nation of Somalia is experiencing the worst drought in 40 years. Somalia has been experiencing civil war for over 20 years. Drought has made the situation worse, especially for pregnant women. They lack the proper diet and nutrition to ensure the safe growth of the child.
Women have to travel over long distances just to be able to access medical care. Most of these women are under such malnutrition that, in most cases, they either end up losing the pregnancy or dying. The healthcare centres are also not equipped with enough facilities to save lives.
Drought and conflict have made the situation unbearable, making many Somalis journey south to the Kenyan side to seek refuge in the camps. More than seven million Somalis are in desperate need of food and water.
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The United Kingdom announced on December 2nd that it would provide funding to the Somali government. According to Andrew Mitchell, the UK Minister for Development, they will use the funds to combat drought, food insecurity, and gender-based violence and increase climate resilience, reaching over 480,000 of the country's most vulnerable people. The additional funds will also assist Somali troops in their fight against al-Shabaab.
Al-Shabaab is a terrorist organization formed in 2006 after Ethiopia tried to invade Somalia. Al-Shabaab has been the leading cause of insecurity in east Africa, especially Somalia. They launch attacks frequently in various towns trying to take control. They are associated with many militant groups in the middle east, such as al Qaeda and book haram of Nigeria.
Efforts to defeat the group have been futile. They have also made it difficult for food and other humanitarian aid to reach Somalis in urgent need. The war in Ukraine between Russia and Ukraine has contributed to the hunger.
