Somalia: Flash Update No.1 Clashes in Moqokori, Hiraan region (As of 10 July 2025)

This Flash Update is prepared by OCHA, in coordination with humanitarian partners and authorities in Somalia and covers clashes in Hiraan region as of 10 July 2025. The next update will be issued as soon as additional information is available.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Armed clashes in Moqokori town, Hiraan region have intensified, displacing thousands of civilians from their homes to villages in Buloburto, Jalalaqsi, and Mahas districts.

• Six health facilities in the affected areas have suspended operations, cutting off access to essential healthcare and emergency services for thousands of vulnerable people.

• Since January 2025, more than 58,260 people have been displaced due to armed conflict between government forces and non-state armed groups (NSAG) in the Hiraan and Middle Shabelle regions.

• Humanitarian partners and local authorities are working to verify displacement figures and assess options for delivering assistance where access permits.

SITUATION OVERVIEW

Escalated armed clashes in Moqokori town, Hiraan region, have displaced at least 1,130 households (at least 6,780 people) to villages in the Buloburto, Jalalaqsi, and Mahas districts. These areas are hard to reach due to insecurity, with only limited humanitarian operations currently active. All six health facilities in the area—including health centers in Yasoman, Moqokori, Muse Gel, and Dib Ugal, as well as primary units in Hawo Gadud and Mora Ari—have suspended operations due to security concerns. The shutdown has halted vital maternal care, emergency treatment, and disease prevention services, leaving vulnerable populations without access to essential healthcare.

Once a hub for families displaced by drought and food insecurity, Moqokori is now grappling with the additional consequences of violence. Beyond healthcare disruptions, ongoing clashes have also compromised water sources and supply routes, significantly increasing the risk of malnutrition and disease outbreaks among the displaced population. The lack of safe access to clean water and food is worsening an already dire humanitarian situation. Continued clashes could further isolate Buloburto and Jalalaqsi districts, where existing access constraints already hinder the delivery of critical aid. These cumulative developments underscore the urgent need for scaled-up humanitarian assistance and enhanced security measures to support and protect civilians.

According to the Hirshabelle State Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management and the Hiraan Governor’s Office, more than 58,260 people (9,710 families) have been displaced by conflict across affected areas since January 2025. The Hiraan and Middle Shabelle regions, Hirshabelle State, have been the epicentre of sustained armed clashes between government forces and non-state armed groups since late 2022, resulting in loss of life, widespread displacement, and extensive destruction of infrastructure.