United Nations warns about the humanitarian situation in Baydhabo

MOGADISHU, Somalia — The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) in Somalia has stated that the conflict in the city of Baidoa is worsening the humanitarian situation and endangering the safety and protection of civilians.

The clashes in Baidoa that occurred in August and September have caused ongoing insecurity, safety threats, new displacement, and difficulties in accessing basic services, according to a statement from the Humanitarian Coordinator for Somalia, George Conway.

Conway noted that women, children, the elderly, and people with disabilities are particularly vulnerable to the impacts of the conflict, as they face additional challenges related to safety, access to aid, and freedom of movement.

He stated that the recurring displacements undermine the ability of families to cope with difficult conditions, especially as Baidoa has already been dealing with long-standing high levels of child malnutrition.

The UN official urged all parties involved in the conflict to prioritize the protection of civilians and to adhere to international humanitarian law.

OCHA also called for an immediate and impartial investigation into reports of civilians being killed or injured in the fighting, while demanding that civilians be allowed to safely access humanitarian assistance and essential services.

George Conway stated that schools and other civilian areas should be protected from the effects of conflict. He also emphasized that hospitals and healthcare facilities have special protections provided by international law.

Humanitarian agencies have stated that they will continue to provide lifesaving support, but they called on all parties to ensure the safety of aid workers and humanitarian assets.

The agencies also urged the warring parties to facilitate safe, rapid, and unimpeded access for those affected by the conflicts to receive assistance.