Today, SAARO team conducted a comprehensive field visit to Barwaaqo Village as part of a wider effort to evaluate the worsening drought conditions across rural and pastoral areas in Southwest State of Somalia. The mission aimed to gather firsthand information, understand immediate challenges faced by households, and identify priority areas requiring rapid intervention to protect lives and livelihoods.
During the assessment, the team engaged with goat keepers, camel herders, and small-scale farmers who represent some of the most vulnerable families in the region. These communities rely heavily on livestock and farming, making them extremely vulnerable to climate shocks. Their insights provided essential evidence of a crisis that extends far beyond Barwaaqo, affecting multiple rural settlements across the state.
The findings revealed that livestock are severely affected by the prolonged drought, with many animals weak, malnourished, and increasingly susceptible to disease. Owners also reported widespread cases of common cold and other illnesses among their animals, contributing to a sharp decline in herd productivity. The drought has further caused a significant drop in milk production, impacting household nutrition and income across rural communities.
Another critical challenge observed was the severe shortage of fodder and natural grass, a situation widely reported across rural Southwest State. Herders are being forced to travel long distances in search of pasture, exposing both animals and families to additional risk. This fodder crisis remains one of the most urgent needs requiring immediate emergency assistance.
Farmers in Barwaaqo and surrounding rural areas further reported extremely low crop production due to insufficient and delayed rainfall. Many planted seeds have dried up, resulting in failed harvests and reduced household food supply. This has deepened the vulnerability of families who depend on both small-scale farming and livestock for survival.
In response, the SAARO team briefed community members on possible coping strategies, available support pathways, and upcoming initiatives aimed at strengthening resilience during this crisis. SAARO remains committed to continued monitoring, close coordination with partners, advocating for urgent fodder distribution, veterinary support, and broad drought response measures to assist affected rural communities across Southwest State of Somalia.
