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Hiraan/Gedo (Dawan Africa) – The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) has reported that more than 100,000 people have been displaced across the Hiiraan and Gedo regions over the past two months due to intensifying armed conflicts in central and southern Somalia.
According to a new situation report issued by OCHA on Tuesday, the highest number of displacements has been recorded in Hiiraan region, where approximately 62,000 people have fled their homes since June. The report highlights that around 36,000 people fled from Moqokori and surrounding areas to Beledweyne, while an estimated 14,300 moved to Bulo Burte and 10,500 to Jalalaqsi.
“The conflict intensified significantly in Maxaas on July 26 and 27,” the report stated. “The District Commissioner reported that approximately 22,800 people fled Maxaas, relocating to Beledweyne, Bulo Burte, and nearby areas.”
In Gedo region, clashes in Beled Xaawo district between July 22 and 26 have affected over 38,000 people. Approximately 28,000 people reportedly fled to nearby villages, while 10,200 crossed the border into Mandera, Kenya, according to Protection Cluster partners cited in the report.
The report also noted that seven health centers in Hiiraan have suspended operations due to insecurity, leaving many residents without access to essential health services. Additionally, key water sources and transport routes have been damaged or rendered inaccessible.
OCHA cited data from the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) indicating that of the estimated 178,600 residents in Beled Xaawo, 1,710 are in an emergency situation, 22,560 in a disaster phase, and 48,770 facing severe conditions. Commercial flights to Doolow have remained suspended since July 15, affecting humanitarian logistics and staff movement.
The displaced populations are in urgent need of emergency assistance, including shelter, food, clean water, healthcare, and protection services. A joint assessment conducted between July 17 and 19 recommended the provision of food aid, cash support, mobile health services, and water trucking. UNHCR and the Protection Cluster are currently monitoring 20 displacement sites in Beled Xaawo and Doolow.
“The humanitarian situation in Hiiraan and Gedo is extremely dire,” the OCHA report emphasized. “We urge all humanitarian partners to update their emergency response plans and scale up their services immediately.”
This report comes as heavy fighting continues in Hiiraan between Al-Shabaab and a coalition of Somali federal forces and local Macawiisley fighters. The clashes have led to government forces losing control of several positions, prompting mass civilian displacement.
Meanwhile, in Gedo, federal and regional forces are also engaged in active conflict, particularly in Beled Xaawo district, further contributing to the displacement of civilians in the region. OCHA confirmed that a follow-up report will be issued as more data becomes available.