Reports point out that this figure is primarily from the Hiran region, in the center of the country, due to the fierce fighting between local militias, which has intensified in recent months, leaving residents defenseless and without food or already precarious sanitation services.

According to Save the Children’s Director in Somalia, Mohamud Mohamed Hassan, the conflict in the Hiran region has disrupted vital services for children, including water sources and access to food.

The official also requested immediate assistance, including emergency shelters, food and water distribution, and mobile health services.

Somalia is considered a divided country, without an effective central government and dominated by clans and warlords since 1991, when allied militias overthrew then-President Mohamed Siad Barre, who had the support of the military.

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