Somalia: Clashes in Erigavo Displace Nearly 43,000 - U.N.

ERIGAVO, Somalia - Nearly 43,000 people have been forced from their homes due to intense fighting between Somaliland forces and SSC-Khatumo militants in Erigavo, in Somalia's Sanag region, the U.N. humanitarian office (UNOCHA) said on Tuesday.

The violence, which erupted on Dec. 14, has claimed lives, including those of children, in the southern sectors of Erigavo and its environs.

Displaced residents have fled to Ceel Afweyn and Laasqoray in Sanag, with others heading to Bossaso, Laas Caanood, Xuddun, and Burco, although exact figures for these locations are not available.

UNOCHA has identified immediate requirements for the displaced, such as shelter, water, sanitation, food, healthcare, and education. The conflict has paralyzed humanitarian aid operations, with local commerce and schooling disrupted.

Since Dec. 16, a fragile peace has returned to Erigavo with the pull-back of SSC-Khatumo forces, but the situation remains tense, local sources said.

Somalia's Ministry of Interior, Federal Affairs, and Reconciliation has called for an immediate ceasefire in Erigavo.

The area has been a focal point for repeated skirmishes; in August 2024, nine people were killed in fighting near Goof, 40 km from Erigavo, linked to a reported act of revenge.

Humanitarian agencies are struggling to assess the needs of the displaced amid continuing security challenges and access restrictions.

GAROWE ONLINE