The protracted conflict and recurring natural disasters in Somalia have led to significant internal displacement, with countless families forced to flee their homes in search of safety and basic necessities. Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in Somalia face numerous challenges, including inadequate shelter, food insecurity, limited access to clean water and healthcare, and protection risks such as violence, exploitation, and abuse.

A combination of repeated droughts and ongoing conflicts in both local regions and further south-central Somalia has exacerbated the suffering of local communities, resulting in a surge of urban and rural IDPs. Pastoral communities have also suffered significant losses, as their livestock—an essential asset for their livelihoods—has perished. Consequently, the IDPs, urban poor host communities, and pastoral populations are grappling with acute social problems and severe humanitarian needs, including food scarcity, lack of access to clean water, poor hygiene and sanitation standards, and limited livelihood opportunities.

Since its establishment, RAHMO has been actively engaged in advocating for the protection and well-being of IDPs. In collaboration with relevant government counterparts and international partners, RAHMO has played a crucial role in improving the conditions of IDPs in Puntland. To address the urgent needs and mitigate future livelihood shocks, RAHMO was among the humanitarian agencies that responded with an integrated Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) project for the community, funded by USAID in collaboration with CARE.

The principal objective of this project was to enhance water access and livelihood support for drought-affected pastoral and IDP communities in the Mudug region. This was achieved through improvements in water hygiene and sanitation and the implementation of a Cash For Work (CFW) program.

RAHMO’s core emergency strategy focuses on reconstructing and improving the water and sanitation sector, providing temporary employment, and assisting vulnerable households through economic support. The proposed emergency assistance program for IDPs and drought-affected pastoral communities included the following main activities: