Mogadishu, Jan 3 (NationPress) The UN relief organization has raised alarms regarding the surge in assaults on aid workers who are delivering essential humanitarian supplies in Somalia, which saw an increase in the fourth quarter (Q4) of 2024.
The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) disclosed on Thursday that there were a total of 62 access incidents reported from October to December 2024 throughout the nation, signifying a modest 8.8 percent rise compared to the third quarter (Q3) of 2024.
According to the OCHA, violence against humanitarian personnel, their resources, and facilities has remained alarmingly high, with two additional incidents recorded, rising from 15 in Q3 to 17 in Q4. This highlights the ongoing dangers faced by aid workers and their resources.
The OCHA noted that while the general trend of incidents has remained stable, there has been a significant change in the types of access challenges reported during Q4.
The agency reported that the number of military actions and ongoing conflicts hindering humanitarian efforts increased to eight in Q4, up from six in Q3, pointing to a rise in conflict-related interruptions, as reported by Xinhua news agency.
Furthermore, the OCHA observed a substantial decrease in interference with humanitarian activities, as incidents fell from 22 to 14.
“This noteworthy reduction indicates strides in reducing external hindrances to humanitarian operations, potentially due to improved coordination and insight into operational dynamics,” the agency noted.
On August 19, 2024, the UN’s chief relief official in Somalia urged all involved parties to safeguard civilians and humanitarian personnel in the nation's conflict-affected regions.
George Conway, the deputy special representative of the United Nations Secretary-General, resident coordinator, and humanitarian coordinator for Somalia, mentioned that in 2024, the country witnessed 124 incidents impacting humanitarian access, which included 12 aid workers injured and 13 instances of physical assault, harassment, and intimidation.
In 2023, four aid workers lost their lives in Somalia, amidst reports of interference during aid distribution.
“I particularly commend Somali aid workers who, despite facing significant challenges, have shown their dedication to assist those most in need of help and protection,” Conway expressed in a statement issued in Mogadishu to commemorate World Humanitarian Day (WHD).
He highlighted that the theme for this year's WHD, #ActForHumanity, called on the global community to enhance the protection of civilians and humanitarian workers, especially in conflict zones.
According to the UN, Somalia is facing one of the world’s most severe humanitarian crises, with millions subjected to great suffering due to recurring and escalating climate shocks, prolonged conflicts, disease outbreaks, and economic instability.
