Somalia is on the verge of famine as the war in Ukraine amplifies the global hunger crisis.

Following consecutive years of large-scale drought which has killed livestock, dried up water supplies and decimated crops across East Africa, Somalia now faces the prospect of famine.

Plagued by ongoing conflict for more than 30 years, millions of people have fled their homes in search of food and water. Families are dying not only from starvation but also from diseases such as cholera and measles because they lack clean water and sanitation.

CARE is delivering lifesaving aid to people in Somalia through food and nutrition programming, cash vouchers, healthcare and medical support, access to clean water, and protection services for women and girls.

You can help millions at risk of starvation by donating to our Global Hunger Crisis Appeal.

Fast Facts

Population: 16.3 million (2021)
Life expectancy: 58 years (56 male, 59 female) (2020)
Infant mortality: 73 deaths/1,000 live births (2020)
Under-5 mortality: 115 deaths/1,000 live births (2020)
Maternal mortality: 829 deaths/100,000 live births (2017)
Access to basic drinking water: 56% (79% urban, 37% rural) (2020)
Access to safe sanitation: 32% (44% urban, 21% rural) (2020)
Labour force participation rate: 49.4% (76% male, 23% female (2019)
Percentage of seats held by women in national parliament: 24% (2021)
GDP per capita*: $1,270 AUD (2020)

Source: World Bank, *CIA World Factbook

Donate now

Support our ongoing work to create a more equal world.

Your donation can help end extreme poverty and give people the means to build a better future for themselves in countries like Somalia.

For those living in extreme poverty, your support brings education and training, healthcare and clean water, nutritious food, and new ways to earn an income. And in times of crisis, you help us deliver emergency relief. Please donate today.

Read more about our ongoing impact in Somalia:

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