UNICEF reports rising child malnutrition in Somalia amid aid cuts
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UNICEF reported on August 21 that nearly 1.9 million children in Somalia were projected to face malnutrition this year, representing a 32% increase in admissions for severe acute malnutrition and complications. The surge occurred as 205 health and nutrition facilities closed following an 80% drop in funding from donors, including the U.S. and other Western nations. UNICEF spokesperson James Elder noted that the situation was exacerbated by the climate crisis, ongoing conflict, displacement, and increased costs for fuel and fertilizer linked to the war in Iran.
Consequences
The closure of up to 618 total health facilities is expected to force mothers and children to travel further for medical care, leading to delays in treatment. These delays increase the risk of severe illness and preventable deaths among the half-million children suffering from the deadliest form of acute malnutrition.
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