Joint Rapid Needs Assessment Highlights Urgent Humanitarian Needs in Garasb aley

A Joint Rapid Needs Assessment (JRNA) conducted by MEDAIR, DAWA,ZAMZAM, and SAACID,  in Garasbaley District on 12 March 2026 has revealed a worsening humanitarian situation caused by severe drought and conflict in the regions of Lower Shabelle, Bay, and Bakool.

The assessment found that 2,670 newly displaced households arrived in Garasbaley within just two weeks, placing extreme pressure on already overcrowded settlements. Most of the new arrivals are women, children, elderly people, and vulnerable families who fled their homes after losing crops, livestock, income sources, and access to basic services.

Field findings confirmed major gaps in shelter, WASH, health, nutrition, and protection. Many displaced families are living in makeshift shelters or under trees, while others are staying with host communities. Access to safe water, sanitation facilities, hygiene items, and health services remains critically limited.

The assessment also identified urgent public health concerns, including diarrheal diseases and severe acute malnutrition (SAM) among children. Sanitation conditions are poor, with widespread open defecation, inadequate latrines, and a lack of hygiene materials for newly arrived households.

Based on the findings, partners are calling for immediate and coordinated humanitarian assistance, including:

• Emergency shelter support

• Hygiene kits and water containers

• Improved sanitation facilities

• Mobile health and nutrition services

• Community awareness and referral support

This joint assessment underscores the urgent need to respond quickly in order to protect li ves, reduce suffering, and improve the living conditions of newly displaced communities in Garasbaley.