In late 2022, the Famine Review Committee determined that several populations in the Bay Region of Somalia were at risk of famine. Funds from the African Risk Capacity (ARC) Replica were subsequently released in March 2023, when pre-agreed thresholds indicated rainfall deficits, drought and increasing food insecurity. A total of USD 3.38 million was released from ARC Replica, supplemented by USD 891,800 from Start Ready.
The project targeted crisis-affected people in Baidoa and Burhakaba districts, providing them with financial support to combat food shortages caused by the drought. The project reached 51,318 people between April and July 2023, with each recipient household receiving three monthly transfers of USD 120 via mobile money.
Baidoa and Burhakaba districts are located in the Bay Region of southern Somalia. Both districts have been affected by periodic crises for over ten years due to the impact of five droughts, displacement and insecurity. As of April 2023, the Bay Region was the region most affected by food insecurity and malnutrition in Somalia. It was estimated that between April and June 2023, 90% of the population faced acute food insecurity and 98% of children under five suffered from acute malnutrition. At the same time, the Bay Region also hosted the highest rate of displaced people of any part of the country due to the increasing impact of drought in surrounding areas.
