Somalia PM: My office has drought department that anyone needs real information can contact

MOGADISHU, Somalia - Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre has promised that his government will prioritize the humanitarian crisis in Somalia, which has badly exposed millions of vulnerable families, which are struggling to get food.

Somalia is dealing with the worst drought in a decade, which could degenerate into famine, with the international community now calling for an immediate response to avert a catastrophic situation.

In an exclusive Twitter Space discussion with Garowe Online, the new PM said his office has a drought department that can give accurate information and updates on the unfolding humanitarian crisis.

Barre said the government of Somalia will leave no stone unturned to save the lives of more than 6 million people affected by the drought, which the UN warned could turn into famine if the aid is delayed.

The world has been asked to chip in and help tackle the looming famine in the Horn of Africa.

“My office has a drought department that receives accurate information daily on the humanitarian crises and anyone can contact it,” he added.

When he assumed office last month from Farmajo, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud appointed Abdirahman Abdishakur Warsame who run for to seat in May 15 election against him as the special envoy for drought response.

Shortly after the new PM Hamza Abdi Barre started his first day at the office on Wednesday, June 29, Warsame unveiled bank accounts for donations towards the assistance of the drought-hit people.

It is not clear who will directly manage the donated funds for the drought envoy’s bank accounts as there are no links with the concerned government institutions, including the ministry of humanitarian.

The unregulated flow of money to the Somali government has often discouraged the international donors who have been calling for prudent management of finances in the country and an end to corruption.

More than 7 million Somali people are affected by the ongoing severe drought with most of the citizens having moved to IDP camps in the major cities, including Mogadishu in search of food aid and water.

Severe drought is putting Somalia at an increased risk of famine as acute food insecurity, malnutrition and mortality worsen, the United Nations and the Somali government warned early this month.

The Horn of Africa country is experiencing the worst drought since the 2011 famine following the failure of three consecutive rainy seasons, resulting in the destruction of livestock and crops.

GAROWE ONLINE