TABLBE OF CONTENT
| Particulars | Page |
| Executive Summary | 3 |
| 1.0 Report Introduction and Background
1.1 Overview |
5
5 |
| 2.0 Assessment Goal and Purpose
2.1 Location and Scope of the Assessment 2.2 Key Study Issues Assessed 2.3 MRDO Key Interventions 2.4 Methodology and Approach Used 2.5 Assessment Design 2.6 Data Collection 2.7 Ethical Considerations |
6
6 7 7 7 8 8 8 |
| 3.0 Assessment Findings and Results
3.1 Response rate 3.2 Questionnaires response rate 3.3 Demographic characteristics of respondents 3.4 Impacts on Livelihood 3.5 Impacts on housing 3.6 Impacts on security 3.7 Impacts on Education 3.8 Impacts on health 3.9 Other study results |
8
8 8 9 10 11 11 12 12 12 |
| 4.0 Recommendations and Way forward | 13 |
Report Executive Summary
Addressing and reducing internal displacement linked with floods is a priority of the Somali government and its partners. To inform planning for flood-related crises and better assistance to affected populations, MRDO conducted an assessment between January-February, 2024 of the impacts of flood displacement on the basic essential services including but not limited to food, livelihood, shelter, health, education and security of displaced people and their non-displaced neighbours in the IDP sites and minority and marginalized riverine villages. This report presents the assessment’s key findings.
Impacts on livelihoods
Lack of livelihood opportunities is an issue for everyone in the area. When floods occur, displaced and non-displaced people are affected either by the destruction or inaccessibility of their place of work, or the closure of most of the city and its markets. Most people, however, can resume their activities as soon as the flooding comes to an end. Living standards are affected not only by the reduction in financial resources but also by the destruction of roads and the resulting increase in the price of food and other commodities.
Impacts on housing
The degradation of housing conditions is one of the most immediate and systematic impacts of displacement. Not only are displaced people separated from their property and their home. They are often forced to live in difficult conditions. In the six IDP sites and affected riverine villages, most displaced people either find refuge in someone else’s home in less affected parts of the area, or they move to customarily uninhabited lands out of their areas that become defacto camps for IDPs. Their housing conditions vary greatly depending on which group they fall into.
In the settlements that emerge out of town, people use tents or makeshift shelters that they build out of sticks, cardboard or fabric. Displacement can also affect the housing conditions of non-displaced people, particularly when they share their homes with IDPs, as often happen in Hiraan. Most non-displaced respondents reported overcrowding and a lack of privacy. They also said that they incurred additional expenses when they last shared their home with people displaced by the floods.
Impacts on security
People’s security can be severely affected when they are forced out of their homes and communities to live in tents or makeshift shelters in overcrowded settlements. Over a quarter of the displaced respondents said they felt less safe during their last displacement than they had in their regular home. Most of those reported a rise in theft and a lack of police protection. Another issue is eviction or secondary displacement when owners ask IDPs to vacate their land. The impact of displacement on the security of non-displaced people was much more evident.
Impacts on education
When the floods come, education is interrupted. Children leave their homes, and schools become inaccessible or are used for emergency shelter. Parents focus on taking essential items, like mattresses and blankets, with them, but learning materials, such as books, are sometimes washed away.
Poor access to water, sanitation and hygiene in areas where IDPs find refuge can lead to a deterioration in children’s health from, among other causes, waterborne diseases and malaria. Sick children are unable to go to school or learn properly. Insecurity in displacement camps can also discourage parents from sending their children to school, particularly in the case of girls.
Children may also be unable to study upon returning to their homes. Many schools need to be renovated first. Nearly all displaced children experienced an interruption in their education as a result of their displacement.
Impacts on health
Several organisations provide emergency health support to people affected by floods in Hiraan IDP sites, but this support is insufficient. Non-governmental organisations provide some primary healthcare. Secondary and tertiary healthcare is unavailable. Frequent outbreaks of water-borne diseases were reported, and are said to affect many children in the displaced and non-displaced communities. Pregnant women also find it extremely difficult to access healthcare facilities or healthcare professionals when they give birth, putting them and their babies at grave risk. Mental health is heavily affected by internal displacement. Impacts on the mental health of non-displaced respondents are also visible, although slightly less pronounced.
Conclusion
This assessment highlights the repercussions flood displacement has on both displaced and non-displaced populations. Despite widespread awareness and understanding of the issue among those affected, and among government authorities and international and non-governmental organisations, longer-term interventions to prevent future displacement and ensure durable solutions are lacking. A promising start is the recognition by Somalia’s government that addressing flood-related displacement is a national priority, particularly among the IDP sites and riverine villages and communities
This assessment report on the emergency needs of the affected population is intended to inform such interventions. It is intended to help guide more inclusive, comprehensive and durable solutions for IDPs and their host communities.
MRDO Brief Background
MRDO is a legally registered organization based in Somalia focusing on improving the lives and livelihoods of marginalized and minority groups and promoting respect for their dignity and fundamental rights while working as a platform on matters humanitarian, human rights and development utilizing the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and other human rights instruments.
MRDO is endeavoring to help marginalized and minority groups, women, children and other vulnerable groups who have suffered injustices, hardship and neglect due to war, natural disasters or poverty by offering them the opportunity to develop their independence and protect their dignity for a socially, economically and politically empowered society free of gender inequalities.
The organization is founded on the principles of democracy, respect for human rights and the rule of law with a strong focus on the vulnerable, marginalized and minority groups in all the regions of Somalia and beyond that have been subjects of oppression, discrimination and marginalization for years.
1.0 Report Introduction and Background
1.1 Overview
Heavy rains in October, November and December of 2023 caused significant flooding in several parts of Beletweyne, Bulaburto, Jalalaqsi and Jowhar districts among the rural and urban populations and minority and marginalized settlements in riverine villages and urban areas. The rains marked the beginning of the Deyr (October to December) rainy season in the country which was above normal rains and flooding due to the influence of the El Niño conditions.
According to SoDMA, at least 2.48 million people were affected with 1.1 million displaced and 118 killed in the entire country. (UNESCO). Humanitarian partners have stepped up to meet increased needs despite logistical, access and funding challenges, reaching at least 836,000 people with assistance since then. The majority of the displaced people have moved to higher ground, closer to their settlements.
Addressing and reducing internal displacement linked with floods is a priority of MRDO, the Somali government and its partners. To inform planning for flood-related crises and better assistance to affected populations, MRDO conducted an assessment between January – February, 2024 of the impacts of flood displacement on the livelihood, housing conditions, health, education and security of displaced people and their non-displaced neighbours in Beledweyne, Bulaburto, Jalalaqsi and Jowhar IDP sites heavily affected by recurring floods. This report presents the assessment’s key findings.
2.0 Assessment Goal and Purpose
The specific objective of the assessment was to inform planning for flood-related crises and better assistance to affected populations.
The report presents our findings from the assessment conducted as part of the formative evaluation and routine monitoring with input garnered predominantly from other service providers in the region.
2.1 Location and Scope of the Assessment
MRDO assessment focused on IDP sites in Beledweyne, Bulaburto, Jalalaqsi and Jowhar and among the minority and marginalized settlements in riverine villages and urban areas as tabulated below. Although the study was conducted in the stated locations above, the methodology used was relevant and applicable to be generalized to all other affected sites in Somalia, thus informing humanitarian response programming on flood and related affected populations.
| Location/s | Names of IDP Sites | Minority IDP Sites | Non-Minority sites |
| Beletweyne | Ala-amin2 minority, Alasuge minority, Alabari Minority, Iftin, Shilow, Macaruf, Caynab, Gaboyo2, Fatxi, Matanaha, Fatxikhey, Sigalow khayrqabe, Dayax-sigalow, Janowkey, Jiiqle, Bilan1, Bilan 2, Rajo2, Daryel Bulayaqub, Ayan, Xamir-Gab, Cadiley Eyla clan hunters, Danyer, Dugane, Kumisar, Gurmad and Gargar, Budul, Mubarak, Bardale, Berey, Cadani, Tawakal2, Dongadud, Warhube, Sugow. |
34 |
1 |
| BELETWEYNE Minority settlement villages | Qarsoni, Cabdi-Doon, Kurtumaaley, Burjo-Dheer, Quracley, Donkudle, Garab-Dheeb
|
7 |
– |
| Jalalaqsi | Badbaado, Barwaaqo, Bulsho, Iftin, Wadajir | 5 | – |
| Jowhar
|
Shiq Omar, Shiq oyaaye, Tawakale, Jilyaale, Isnaay Biyaso, Moyko |
6 |
– |
| Jowhar | Bayaxaaw, Mooyko, Halgan, Baarow weyne, Baareey,
Maandheere, Raqale, Xawaadleey, Shanloow, Jowhar eylo, Timire, Geeda barkaan, Buula axmed ciyoow
|
13 |
– |
- Key Study Issues Assessed
MRDO team took into consideration the review criteria of relevance and quality of design, effectiveness and efficiency of the assessment. The team also analysed the impact of floods on the population in respect to humanitarian assistance received in terms of Food and Non Food items, Shelter, cash assistance, capacity building and training and other cross cutting elements as well including gender, environmental issues and governance.
2.3 MRDO Key Interventions
Activity 1 – IDP Sites Visits and Assessment
The team visited affected IDP sites, riverine villages and carried out needs assessment in all the IDP sites and minority riverine villages.
Activity 2 – Data Collection through Questionnaires and Evidence Based Facts.
The team applied questionnaires and evidence based facts to collect the required data and information from the IDP sites and minority riverine villages which have now been used to prepare this report.
Activity 3 – Needs Assessment Report
MRDO team finally produced and disseminated the report for stakeholders’ including but not limited to the humanitarian partners for necessary action.
2.4 Assessment methodology and approach applied
The use of Questionnaires consisting of a series of questions for the purpose of gathering information from respondents was applied. MRDO team prepared quantitative survey questions with defined objective questions used to gain detailed insights from respondents about the assessment. These questions formed the core of our assessment and were used to gather numerical data to determine statistical results.
The overall assessment survey utilized mixed participatory methods to collect both qualitative and quantitative data. All data collected was disaggregated by sex. The survey used primary data collection and secondary data review to produce a final report. MRDO team employed a participatory approach and hence worked closely with all key individual and group stakeholders. This approach ensured that the results of the assessment fulfilled the stated objectives.
2.5 Study Design
The study employed cross-sectional study design. With the purpose of reaping the benefits of exploring range of information and generating data that can be complemented and/or triangulated quantitative data collection method which incorporated qualitative sections in the tool employed. The survey participants were randomly selected.
2.6 Data Collection Tool
MRDO team developed a harmonized tool containing close ended questions that was used during the exercise.
2.7 Ethical Consideration
MRDO data collection team deployed to the field introduced themselves, explain the purpose of the assessment and obtain the willingness of respondents. In every engagement / visit with participants, respect was given to local cultures and norms, and every participant was kindly requested to provide his/her genuine opinions/ideas. Finally, when respondents finished their points, the data collection team extended their gratitude to respondents for their time and effort in providing data for the assessment.
3.0 Assessment Findings and Results
From the assessment data analysis and interpretation, the following findings were arrived at:-
3.1 Response rate
The assessment targeted 305 participants through questionnaires administrated. Of the study of 305 sample respondents, the recorded response rate was 91% as tabulated below:-
3.2 Questionnaire Response Rate
| Questionnaire | Frequency | Percentage (%) |
| Response | 280 | 91% |
| Non-Response | 25 | 9% |
| Total | 305 | 100 |
According to Kothari and Gang, (2014) a response rate of 50% is adequate for analysis and reporting; a rate of 60% is good and a response rate of 78% and over is excellent; therefore this response rate was adequate for analysis.
3.3 Demographic Characteristics of respondents
The purpose of this background information was to find out the characteristics of the respondents. Furthermore, the respondents have also requested that all the information provided to remain confidential.
In total, 280 respondents participated in the assessment and they were sampled from the 61 IDP sites and minority riverine villages as earlier stated. The shape of the questionnaires in the demographic section looked upon in terms of Emergency assistance received in terms of food, shelter, cash assistance, capacity building and trainings, etc.
Identified Emergency Needs by the Respondents’ in their Priority
MRDO team report that flood-affected people need urgent food, emergency shelter and non-food items (NFIs), nutrition, health, protection; water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) assistance. Findings from our assessment indicate that food, health, WASH and shelter/non-food items are the most pressing needs for affected people in the region.
A limited flow of commodities is reported because the infrastructures and roads between towns and IDP sites were cut off, leaving local transporters stranded on either sides. Our findings report a significant need for food, shelter, clean water, and sanitation facilities for displaced families, as well as community surveillance, early warning systems and risk communication.
| Need | No. of respondents | % |
| Food and cash assistance | 150 | 54 |
| Shelter | 80 | 29 |
| Vocational skills & Capacity building and trainings | 50 | 17 |
| 280 | 100 |
The above table and graph shows that 53% (150 respondents) prioritized emergency food and cash assistance followed by shelter at 29% (80 respondents) and vocational and capacity building and trainings at 17% (50 respondents).
3.4 Impacts on livelihoods
Lack of livelihood opportunities is an issue for everyone in the area. When floods occur, displaced and non-displaced people are affected either by the destruction or inaccessibility of their place of work, or the closure of most of the city and its markets. Most people, however, can resume their activities as soon as the flooding comes to an end. Living standards are affected not only by the reduction in financial resources but also by the destruction of roads and the resulting increase in the price of food and other commodities.
3.5 Impacts on housing
The degradation of housing conditions is one of the most immediate and systematic impacts of displacement. Not only are displaced people separated from their property and their home. They are often forced to live in difficult conditions. In the six IDP sites and affected riverine villages, most displaced people either find refuge in someone else’s home in less affected parts of the area, or they move to customarily uninhabited lands out of their areas that become defacto camps for IDPs. Their housing conditions vary greatly depending on which group they fall into.
In the settlements that emerge out of town, people use tents or makeshift shelters that they build out of sticks, cardboard or fabric. Displacement can also affect the housing conditions of non-displaced people, particularly when they share their homes with IDPs, as often happens in affected sites and villages. Most non-displaced respondents reported overcrowding and a lack of privacy. They also said that they incurred additional expenses when they last shared their home with people displaced by the floods.
3.6 Impacts on security
People’s security can be severely affected when they are forced out of their homes and communities to live in tents or makeshift shelters in overcrowded settlements. Over a quarter of the displaced respondents said they felt less safe during their last displacement than they had in their regular home. Most of those reported a rise in theft and a lack of police protection.
Another issue is eviction or secondary displacement when owners ask IDPs to vacate their land. The impact of displacement on the security of non-displaced people was much more evident.
3.7 Impacts on education
When the floods come, education is interrupted. Children leave their homes, and schools become inaccessible or are used for emergency shelter. Parents focus on taking essential items, like mattresses and blankets, with them, but learning materials, such as books, are sometimes washed away.
Poor access to water, sanitation and hygiene in areas where IDPs find refuge can lead to a deterioration in children’s health from, among other causes, waterborne diseases and malaria. Sick children are unable to go to school or learn properly. Insecurity in displacement camps can also discourage parents from sending their children to school, particularly in the case of girls.
Children may also be unable to study upon returning to their homes. Many schools need to be renovated first. Nearly all displaced children experienced an interruption in their education as a result of their displacement.
3.8 Impacts on health
Several organisations provide emergency health support to people affected by floods, but this support is insufficient. Non-governmental organisations provide some primary healthcare. Secondary and tertiary healthcare is unavailable. Frequent outbreaks of water-borne diseases were reported, and are said to affect many children in the displaced and non-displaced communities. Pregnant women also find it extremely difficult to access healthcare facilities or healthcare professionals when they give birth, putting them and their babies at grave risk. Mental health is heavily affected by internal displacement. Impacts on the mental health of non-displaced respondents are also visible, although slightly less pronounced.
3.9 Other Study Results
The assessment further revealed that the group has no access to food, cash assistance, clean drinking water, toilets, among other essential basic services.
4.0 Proposed Recommendations and Way forward
The main recommendations on how to include affected IDPs and other vulnerable and minority groups in humanitarian and development programmes in Hiraan, Somalia are suggested as below. These recommendations should be applied across various sectors, including but not limited to: humanitarian support, water, sanitation and hygiene; food security and livelihoods; shelter and settlements; health care:-
- Facilitate minority group’ organisations to actively engage with the Somali Federal Government in decision making processes, particularly those that affect them, for example, the development of laws, policies, service provision and government approaches regarding minority groups.
- Donors should ensure that programs and services supported take into account the needs of affected minority groups and such funding is monitored and reported.
- Ensure that their humanitarian services are equally accessible to men and women, boys and girls from minority groups and rehabilitation related assistance is provided to those in need of it;
- Ensure equal protection of minorities from harm or violence.
- Provision and distribution of emergency shelter plastic sheets, emergency kits and other materials.
- Hygiene promotion and messaging
- nitiation of Durable Solution Programs among the affected populations to enhance their livelihoods and empower them economically. This will include offering vocational and entrepreneurship skills training to the affected youth and women to empower them to be self-reliant.
- Build resilience in the affected communities and villages so that the crisis can be averted in the future by constructing sanitation facilities such as latrines and handwashing stations.
- Initiation of economic resiliency and livelihoods such as value chains and markets through cash-based interventions, skill training, women’s markets, and livestock support.
