Somalia faces a significant challenge as communities grapple with a precarious situation heightened by climate change and social inequalities. A recent survey of 7,460 individuals across 11 districts highlights the urgent need for sustainable support that not only addresses immediate needs but also fosters long-term resilience.
Understanding Resilience in Somalia
Resilience is defined by communities in Somalia as the capacity to withstand economic shocks without losing critical assets or livelihoods. This definition encompasses five essential factors:
- Access to assets and livelihoods
- Social capital
- Climate coping capacity
- Access to services
- Security
However, many face barriers that make resilience difficult to achieve. Internally displaced persons (IDPs), women, and marginalized groups find themselves particularly vulnerable across these dimensions.
Key Findings on Livelihoods and Support
A major takeaway from the survey is that communities yearn for integrated support that tackles both urgent needs and future aspirations. The report indicates several key findings:
1. Immediate Needs and Long-term Aspirations
While food insecurity persists as a pressing issue, the lack of livelihood opportunities is viewed as the greatest challenge by 53% of respondents. Many IDPs express dissatisfaction with humanitarian aid, with 68% reporting negative perceptions about its effectiveness.
2. Importance of Livelihood Security
Secure livelihoods are central to the concept of resilience. Nearly half of those surveyed feel pessimistic about their future job prospects. Despite the knowledge that adapting practices can help mitigate climate impacts, financial constraints hinder efforts to improve agricultural productivity.
3. Erosion of Social Safety Nets
Social capital is critical for resilience, but 71% of participants reported having no one to turn to for financial assistance in crises. Cooperation within communities is also dwindling, with 54% believing that collective problem-solving is infrequent due to resource limitations.
4. Climate Challenges and Coping Capacities
Climate shocks exacerbate existing vulnerabilities. In rural areas, about 50% of respondents feel ill-equipped to cope with climate-related hazards. IDPs share similar concerns, with 56% lacking confidence in their community’s capacity to handle climate challenges.
5. Access to Services as a Foundation for Future Growth
Basic services such as healthcare, education, and security are critical for enhancing resilience. Despite acknowledging these challenges, 74% of participants report feeling safe in their daily lives, and 57% indicate that community collaboration contributes to improved security.
Conclusion
Communities in Somalia highlight their desire for a balanced approach to aid that addresses immediate survival needs while also fostering a path to economic independence. Building resilience is not merely about response but also about future-proofing livelihoods against climate and economic uncertainties.
