SITUATION OVERVIEW
Somalia is transitioning out of a prolonged drought that caused mass displacement and livestock losses as well as a threat of famine. The recent Gu rainy season provided some relief but also produced heavy rains and severe flooding. Forecasts for the October to December Deyr rainy season is of a once-in-ahundred-years flood event related to the El Niño weather phenomenon, posing a threat especially to communities along the Shabelle and Juba rivers, which will likely exacerbate humanitarian needs and waterborne disease risks.
Ethiopia's humanitarian situation faces new challenges, including disease outbreaks and pest infestations amid lingering food insecurity. Security issues continue to hinder access to communities in need of aid.
In Kenya's Arid and Semi-Arid Lands, the long rains from March to May have improved access to water and forage. Pastoral regions have benefited, but the effects of the previous severe drought persist, leading to ongoing humanitarian concerns.
Throughout the region, IOM continues its response, recovery and preparedness efforts. Continued donor support remains vital to address continued needs and help restore resilience.
IOM RESPONSE
Since January 2022, IOM has scaled up its drought response significantly in Somalia and Ethiopia, reaching over four million people in total, including over two million in August (a 1% increase from July). Due to funding constraints, Kenya and Djibouti are yet to commence large-scale operations, although Kenya continues Displacement Tracking Matrix (DTM) activities and is preparing new cash assistance and Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) interventions.