WSJI Conducts Rapid Needs Assessment in Balcad IDP Sites, Identifies Urgent Humanitarian Needs

Balcad, Somalia – The Women’s Safety and Justice Initiative (WSJI) has conducted a rapid needs assessment in two IDP sites in Balcad district, identifying the urgent humanitarian needs of displaced families from Damaley, Faduma dhuxul, Kooreebe Bari, Buula Xaaji Cali, Mukadheere, Banaaney, Buula Sheekh, yaaqle, Shanlow, and Shagaxow.

 

The assessment, conducted from July 25th, found that an estimated 19,500 individuals (3,250 households) have been impacted by the conflict in these areas, with around 4,880 individuals (815 households) displaced to Balcad district. The displaced families are currently residing in the Gargaarone and Gargaar two IDP sites, as well as integrated within the host community in Balcad.

 

“The situation for these displaced families is dire, with limited access to basic services such as food, water, sanitation, healthcare, and education,” said WSJI Program Manager, Fatima Abdi. “Our assessment has highlighted the urgent need for humanitarian assistance to ensure the wellbeing and safety of these vulnerable communities.”

Key findings from the assessment include:

  • 815 households (4,890 individuals) are displaced and residing in Balcad district with limited access to basic services
  • Over 600 displaced children lack access to education, with two learning institutions opened in Balcad to accommodate them
  • 90% of children and pregnant/lactating women lack access to immunization and vaccination services
  • 80% of IDPs lack treated mosquito nets, increasing their vulnerability to malaria and other vector-borne diseases
  • Shelter, privacy, and security concerns are prevalent, with damaged shelters and community centers across the IDP sites

 

Based on these findings, WSJI is calling for urgent humanitarian assistance to address the critical needs of food, water, sanitation, healthcare, education, nutrition, and protection for the affected populations. The organization is also advocating for stronger partnerships and commitment from donors, the government, and humanitarian actors to end violence against women and girls in Somalia.

“This crisis has had a devastating impact on vulnerable women and children,” said WSJI Executive Director, Amina Hassan. “We must act now to provide lifesaving assistance and work towards sustainable solutions that prevent such crises from occurring in the future.”

 

WSJI is working closely with local authorities, community leaders, and other stakeholders to coordinate the response and ensure the effective delivery of humanitarian aid to the displaced families in Balcad.

 

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