HARGEISA, Somaliland – A recent interview with Somaliland fire chief Ahmed Mohamed shed light on a tragic consequence of the ongoing drought gripping the region: deaths in ponds and drainage areas. Chief Mohamed, speaking to VOA journalist Hamse Ali Jeesto, revealed that “tens of people die in the ponds” every year, a number likely exacerbated by the current crisis.
While the exact number of fatalities attributable to the drought in Somaliland remains unclear, reports paint a grim picture. A VOA News report in February 2024 cited Somaliland officials stating that nearly 50 people had already died due to drought-related illnesses. The situation with ponds and drainage areas adds another layer of danger to an already desperate situation.
The Desperation for Water
The core issue lies in the scarcity of clean water. The drought has caused wells to run dry, forcing people, particularly those in displaced persons camps, to seek alternative sources. Ponds and drainage areas, however, are often stagnant and polluted, posing a severe health risk.
According to a report by the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) https://www.unocha.org/somalia, “Water scarcity is a major concern, with many shallow wells drying up and trucking water becoming increasingly expensive.” This desperation for any available water source makes these contaminated areas a potential death trap.
Beyond the Immediate Danger:
The deaths in ponds and drainage areas are just one facet of the larger humanitarian crisis unfolding in Somaliland. The same OCHA report warns of “alarming levels of malnutrition, particularly among children under five years old, pregnant and lactating women, and older people.” The loss of livestock, a primary source of food and income for many Somalis, further deepens the crisis.
Livestock Deaths Compound the Problem:
A VOA News report from March 2024 quoted Mohamud Ali Saleban, governor of the Togdheer region, stating that at least 80% of the region’s livestock had perished due to the drought. This loss not only impacts food security but also destroys livelihoods. Herders who have lost their animals are forced to flee their homes and seek assistance in already overcrowded displacement camps.
A Call for International Support:
Somaliland authorities are struggling to cope with the scale of the crisis. Governor Saleban, in the aforementioned VOA report, expressed his hope that the government would declare a state of emergency to unlock further aid. International support is crucial to prevent a full-blown famine.
The Urgent Need for Action:
The situation in Somaliland demands immediate international attention. Humanitarian organizations need resources to distribute clean water, food, and medical supplies. Long-term solutions, such as investing in water infrastructure and drought-resistant crops, are also essential to prevent future tragedies.
The deaths in ponds and drainage areas serve as a stark reminder of the human cost of drought. By taking decisive action, the international community can help Somaliland weather this crisis and build resilience for the future.