What are the solutions for IDPs in Somalia

Internally Displaced persons (IDPs) in Somalia face multifaceted challenges. the UN estimates that there are 2.9 million internally displaced persons (IDPs) across the country – this is on top of the over 1 million who have been displaced since 2021 due to drought.

Conflicts, droughts, intercommunal violence and lack of government in most of Somalia have worsened the humanitarian situation,

Insecurity: IDPs often flee their homes due to violence and conflict. However, even in displacement camps or makeshift settlements, they remain vulnerable to insecurity, including armed attacks, sexual and gender-based violence, and recruitment by armed groups. Lack of law enforcement and weak governance exacerbate the security concerns mainly in the south and Central Somalia including the capital Mogadishu. 

Limited access to basic services: IDPs often lack access to basic services such as clean water, sanitation facilities, healthcare, and education. Overcrowded camps and settlements strain the available resources, making it difficult to provide adequate services to all people in need . This results in poor living conditions and heightened risks of disease outbreaks. large and unregulated settlements have been esbtalished with limited services, many IDPs struggle to access local markets. 

Lack of livelihood opportunities: Displacement disrupts people's livelihoods, making it challenging for IDPs to sustain themselves. They may struggle to find employment or engage in income-generating activities, leading to increased poverty and dependency on humanitarian aid.

Inadequate shelter and housing: IDPs often live in temporary shelters made of flimsy materials, exposing them to harsh weather conditions. Lack of proper housing infrastructure makes them susceptible to displacement again if new conflicts or natural disasters occur.

Limited access to education: Many IDP children in Somalia are unable to attend school due to the absence of educational facilities, lack of qualified teachers, and insufficient learning resources. This hampers their long-term development and perpetuates cycles of poverty, creating lost generation  and poor education outcomes. 

Food insecurity and malnutrition: Somalia frequently experiences droughts and food shortages, affecting both the general population and IDPs. Displacement often aggravates food insecurity, as IDPs may struggle to access adequate food supplies. Malnutrition rates among IDPs, particularly children, can be alarmingly high.

Lack of documentation and legal protection: IDPs often face challenges in obtaining official documentation, such as birth certificates or identification cards. Without proper documentation, they may encounter difficulties accessing essential services, claiming property rights, or asserting their legal status.

Limited durable solutions: IDPs in Somalia often experience protracted displacement, with limited prospects for safe return, local integration, or resettlement. Political instability, ongoing conflict, and the absence of effective governance hinder the establishment of durable solutions for displacement situations.

Addressing these challenges requires coordinated efforts from the Somali government, humanitarian organizations, and the international community. Providing security, improving access to basic services, promoting livelihood opportunities, and supporting the education and protection of IDPs are crucial steps towards alleviating their hardships and facilitating their reintegration into society.

Thanks, 

Abdulahi Adem