Humanitarian assistance to Somalia

Today I announce that the AustralianGovernment is providing humanitarian assistance to people in Somalia facingsevere food insecurity due to conflict and drought.

The $17 million in assistance that weprovided to Somalia in 2017 helped prevent widespread famine. In 2018, sixmillion people remain in need of humanitarian assistance, including more thantwo million who are displaced – more than 1.3 million are children.

The risk of famine persists due to widespreadviolence, displacement and consecutive seasons of failed rains.

Australia is providing $5.5 million inemergency food, clean water and shelter to vulnerable Somali communities. Oursupport will be delivered through the United Nations and trusted humanitarianpartners.

Australia's humanitarian contribution willhelp affected communities improve their agricultural practices and financialmanagement so they can be more resilient in the face of protracted drought.

TheAustralian Government remains committed to doing our part to help addressglobal humanitarian needs, particularly those arising from conflict and foodinsecurity.