Between 12 and 20 September 2026, severe drought and localized insecurity forced the displacement of more than 2,000 individuals across the Gedo, Lower Juba, and Middle Juba regions of Jubaland State. This localized movement follows consecutive failed rainy seasons that have restricted access to food, safe water, and agricultural livelihoods. According to UNHCR, 25 June 2026, drought previously accounted for 93 percent of the 511,797 internal displacements recorded across Somalia between January and March 2026. By mid-year, UNHCR, 23 July 2026, observed that conflict and drought accounted for nearly 90 percent of all recorded displacement nationally.
According to UNHCR, 6 October 2026, the mid-September displacements involved two primary groups. In Lower Juba, drought forced more than 230 households, comprising approximately 1,380 individuals, to leave their homes and seek refuge in Guryosamo village, located north of Kismayo. Concurrently, renewed clashes between the Somali National Army and non-state armed actors in Baidoa in the Bay region pushed approximately 120 households, estimated at 720 individuals, to cross into the Gedo region, where they relocated to Dollow and villages surrounding Luuq.
The immediate response is largely community-led, relying on the capacity of residents in the areas of arrival. According to UNHCR, 6 October 2026, host communities in Guryosamo village have welcomed the newly displaced families, but their capacity to provide adequate and timely assistance is stretched. The influx is increasing competition over already scarce essential resources, particularly food and water, which could heighten tensions and elevate protection risks if left unaddressed. While displacements were reported across Gedo, Lower Juba, and Middle Juba, specific disaggregated household figures for Middle Juba were not distinctly detailed in the preliminary alert.
About this story
Written by the SHM editorial desk and approved by an SHM editor before publication.