Our operations are deeply intertwined with the critical issues of food security and livelihoods. Recurrent challenges such as droughts and climate shocks disrupt agricultural production, exacerbating food scarcity and livelihood vulnerabilities. Agriculture and livestock rearing serve as linchpins of livelihoods for many Somalis, yet face hurdles like low productivity and susceptibility to environmental hazards. Displacement, driven by conflict and disasters, further compounds these challenges, particularly for vulnerable populations in urban areas. READO’s interventions aim to not only address immediate food needs but also build long-term resilience by promoting sustainable agricultural practices, enhancing livelihood opportunities, and fostering community empowerment. By tackling the root causes of food insecurity and poverty, READO endeavors to create lasting positive impacts and improve the overall well-being of communities across Somalia.
Responding to a Food Crisis
In response to the pressing food insecurity exacerbated by the 2022 drought in Somalia, READO undertook comprehensive initiatives to ensure vulnerable communities had access to nutritious food and sustainable livelihoods. Here’s an overview of our response efforts:
Assessment and Targeting: READO conducted comprehensive assessments to identify areas most severely impacted by the food crisis. Through meticulous data collection and analysis, we pinpointed regions in urgent need of assistance, enabling us to target our interventions effectively.
Emergency Relief: Recognizing the immediate need for food assistance, READO swiftly implemented emergency relief measures. Our initiatives included the distribution of vital supplies, provision of nutritious food items, and deployment of mobile food distribution units to reach remote and inaccessible areas. These efforts aimed to provide immediate relief to families facing acute food shortages and hunger.
Livelihood Support: In addition to addressing immediate food needs, READO implemented livelihood support programs to bolster the resilience of communities affected by the crisis. By providing training, resources, and support for income-generating activities such as agriculture and livestock rearing, we empowered households to rebuild their livelihoods and secure sustainable sources of food and income.
Community Empowerment: READO prioritized community engagement and empowerment throughout our response efforts. Through participatory approaches, capacity-building initiatives, and collaboration with local leaders and organizations, we ensured that communities were actively involved in decision-making processes and were equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to overcome the crisis and build resilience for the future.
Monitoring and Adaptation: Throughout the response process, READO remained vigilant in monitoring the evolving situation and adapting our strategies accordingly. We conducted regular assessments, gathered feedback from beneficiaries, and adjusted our interventions to address emerging needs and challenges. This adaptive approach enabled us to maximize the impact of our efforts and effectively support communities through the crisis.
Projects in FSL
- Multi-sectoral Emergency Drought Response in Baidoa, Buurhakaba and Hudur Districts Southwest State of Somalia, Somalia
- Enhance access to livelihood support and empower the displaced affected communities (DACs) in Barwaaqo IDPs Settlements in Baidoa
- Providing emergency life-saving access to safe, clean water, sanitation, and hygiene to drought-affected communities in the rural areas Baidoa District
- Creating economic and social prospects for IDPs and the local population in Baidoa
- Emergency integrated education, protection, and life assistance intervention for drought-affected girls and boys in Baidoa District, Somalia
- Providing emergency life-saving access to safe, clean water, sanitation, and hygiene to Flood-affected communities in the Baidoa district
For more information about our Livelihoods program please talk to us livelihood.program@readosom.org