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Somalia, 10 November 2025 – The United Nations Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator for Somalia, George Conway has warned that parts of Somalia could experience localized famine in the first quarter of 2026 if immediate action is not taken.
Speaking at the Somalia Humanitarian Forum in Jowhar today, Conway said the number of people facing acute food insecurity is expected to increase from 3.4 million to 4.4 million between October and December 2025.
The alert comes amid consecutive failed rainy seasons, escalating food insecurity, and a sharp rise in malnutrition.
Conway highlighted that humanitarian funding is critically low, with Somalia’s 2025 Humanitarian Response Plan currently only 22 per cent funded.
He stressed that “we have time now to invest in a preventative response,” calling for coordinated efforts with federal and state authorities, humanitarian agencies, civil society, the private sector, and international donors.
Without rapid mobilization of resources and expanded partnerships, Conway warned, famine-like conditions could emerge in some regions early next year.
The UN coordinator also emphasized the importance of long-term investment in climate-resilient agriculture, water storage, and other programs designed to reduce future vulnerability while addressing urgent humanitarian needs.Conway concluded by urging the international community to act swiftly to prevent the worst impacts of Somalia’s worsening food crisis, driven by both drought and ongoing conflict.
