BAYDHABO (KAAB TV) – The President of the South West State of Somalia (KGS), Abdiaziz Hassan Mohamed (Laftagareen), spoke on the severe impact of frequent conflicts and persistent drought on the region’s food production capabilities.
Speaking at a Cabinet of Ministers meeting in Baydhabo today, President Laftagareen emphasized the need for government intervention to support the populace in their efforts to produce essential goods.
“Local population known to be productive are not able to produce their food due to recurrent conflict and worsening climate crises that affected the farmers,” the South West State president said.
More than 200,000 people have been affected by heavy rains in early 2023, particularly in the cities of Baidoa, Beledweyne, Jowhar, and various parts of the Gedo region. These floods were followed by drought and near-famine conditions, exacerbating the already dire situation.
These challenges are part of the broader impacts of climate change affecting the world, with African countries, including Somalia, bearing the brunt.
The United Nations reports that more than 6 million people in Somalia are facing food shortages, with over 2 million of them being displaced individuals residing in different regions, including the South West State and Mogadishu.