The Minister of Education and Science of Somaliland Prof. Ismail Duale Yusuf spearheaded a high-level delegation to evaluate the devastating drought impacting communities in the Sanaag region, visiting areas such as Gudmo, Biyo Cas, and surrounding villages. The mission aimed to gain firsthand insight into the dire conditions affecting residents and livestock due to prolonged water and food shortages.
The delegation observed severe hardships, including acute water scarcity, lack of grazing land, and widespread malnutrition causing livestock deaths and health issues. The crisis has also disrupted education, with schools struggling to operate without access to clean water, food, or proper shelter.
In a statement to the media in Gudmo, Prof. Ismail highlighted the drought’s profound impact on local livelihoods, particularly on students and educational facilities. “Our visit was to witness the challenges our people face directly, enabling the ministry and government to implement effective solutions,” he said.
The minister urgently appealed to local and international humanitarian organizations to provide immediate aid to address the growing humanitarian crisis. Regional and district officials accompanying the delegation stressed the need for swift relief efforts and a long-term strategy to protect both the population and livestock.
The Somaliland government is now mobilizing resources and coordinating with stakeholders to deliver critical support to the affected communities in Sanaag.