These photos were taken today in Anole Village and nearby communities, located in Afgoye District, Lower Shabelle Region, Southwest State of Somalia. The river once a vital source of water for farming, livestock, and households has almost completely dried up.
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The rainfed farmers have already lost their crops, and farmers along the river are at risk of losing their crops entirely due to the dried river. Only small, muddy pockets of water remain. Community members, including farmers and youth, are digging through dried river channels, desperately trying to collect whatever little water they can for irrigation. Unfortunately, the water levels are far too low to meet the growing needs.
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This crisis is already threatening livelihoods:
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1. Farmers risk total crop loss.
2. Livestock are weakening due to lack of water.
3. Families, especially children and women, are becoming increasingly vulnerable.
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The images captured today show a stark reality: Anole and surrounding villages urgently need immediate support.
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Assistance with water access, emergency irrigation, and livelihood protection is critical to prevent further losses and safeguard the wellbeing of the most vulnerable.
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We call on partners, donors, and humanitarian actors to stand with these communities during this crisis and help mitigate the growing humanitarian and food security risks.
