Renewed armed clashes in Baidoa, located in the Bay region of Southwest State, have led to significant civilian displacement between 28 September and 3 October 2026. The fighting occurred between forces associated with the former Southwest State administration and the Somali National Army. This displacement follows repeated political and security tensions over the control of Baidoa town.
According to a UNHCR flash alert published on 6 October 2026, more than 5,600 civilians were displaced by the recent clashes. Baidoa already hosts one of the largest populations of internally displaced persons in Somalia, many of whom fled previous droughts and conflicts. The sudden influx of newly displaced persons adds immediate pressure to existing displacement sites and host communities in the area.
Local authorities, the Somali National Army, and UNHCR are involved in the area, though the sudden displacement requires a rapid humanitarian response. These newly displaced populations require rapid emergency shelter, food, water, and protection services to meet their basic needs.
The full impact of the clashes is still being assessed, and the exact number of civilian casualties remains unconfirmed. Additionally, humanitarian access to some affected neighbourhoods may be temporarily restricted by the volatile security situation.
About this story
Written by the SHM editorial desk and approved by an SHM editor before publication.