From Vaticannews · Vatican News · · 1m 30s
Pope Leo XIV calls for aid to Somalia's crisis
The pontiff appeals for international help as violence, drought, and funding cuts devastate the Horn of Africa nation.
In brief
The pontiff appeals for international help as violence, drought, and funding cuts devastate the Horn of Africa nation. Pope Leo XIV is urging the global community to step up humanitarian assistance to Somalia, where violence and extreme weather are compounding an already dire situation. Originally reported by…
Pope calls out Somalia's crisis
During Sunday's Angelus in St. Peter's Square, Pope Leo XIV expressed deep concern about Somalia's humanitarian emergency, where violence and extreme weather are making life unbearable for millions.
“I am following with great concern the humanitarian crisis unfolding in parts of Somalia”
Women and children hit hardest
The Pope specifically noted that women and children are suffering most from the crisis, calling on the international community to provide urgent assistance to these vulnerable populations.
UN agencies slashing aid budgets
The UN's Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs has only secured funding for a third of its already-reduced budget, while the World Food Programme cut assistance from 2 million people to just 600,000 in 2026.
Drought forces families to migrate
Rainfall in 2026 has been significantly below average across the region, forcing families to move their livestock in desperate search for water and pasture.
Healthcare system collapsing
Doctors Without Borders reports that over 70 health facilities have closed in the Mudug region, leaving the organization struggling to provide basic healthcare and treat malnutrition.
Decades of conflict continue
Somalia has been wracked by internal conflict since 1991, and Islamist extremists have strengthened their grip on rural areas, perpetuating instability and preventing aid delivery.
The bottom line
Pope Leo XIV is urging the global community to step up humanitarian assistance to Somalia, where violence and extreme weather are compounding an already dire situation.
