US AID Saved Hungry Somali Kids — Now It’s Drying Up

May 29, 2025

Somalia is experiencing a growing hunger crisis as crucial U.S. aid funding disappears under the Trump administration's dismantling of USAID, which previously provided 65% of Somalia's foreign aid. Save the Children is closing 121 nutrition centers, putting 55,000 children at risk by June, while overall projections indicate 4. 6 million Somalis will face severe hunger.

Who is affected

Malnourished children and their families in Somalia
55,000 children whose lives will be at risk by June
4.6 million Somalis projected to face severe hunger by June
800,000 displaced people sheltering in Mogadishu
Healthcare workers and facilities trying to treat increasing numbers of malnourished patients
Aid organizations like Save the Children that must close nutrition centers

What action is being taken

Save the Children is closing 121 nutrition centers due to funding cuts
Banadir Hospital in Mogadishu is treating malnourished children, with over 500 admitted between April and May
Some people continue to go to closed feeding centers hoping for help
The U.S. State Department claims several lifesaving USAID humanitarian assistance programs remain active in Somalia
The U.S. is working to ensure programs continue when aid transitions to the State Department on July 1

Why it matters

USAID previously provided 65% of Somalia's foreign aid, with approximately $1 billion in funding for fiscal year 2023
Somalia has one of the world's most fragile health systems
11% more children are expected to be severely malnourished than in the previous year
The crisis affects both rural areas and urban centers like Mogadishu
The current situation is described as unprecedented by medical professionals
The funding cuts come while Somalia already struggles with food insecurity due to climate shocks like drought

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint