Fighting Hunger in Somalia: Life for Relief and Development (LIFE)’s Food Distribution Reaches Displaced Families

In late 2025, communities across southern and central Somalia continued to face deepening food insecurity driven by prolonged drought, displacement, and fragile economic conditions. In the outskirts of Mogadishu, particularly in Garasbaley District, thousands of families were living in internally displaced persons (IDP) settlements after being forced from their homes. With limited income, rising food prices, and few livelihood opportunities, many households, especially those caring for orphaned and vulnerable children, struggled to secure even one consistent meal a day. 

Further north in Somaliland, rural communities in Maraalay, Caracad, Qolqol, and Jirjir were also grappling with food shortages that placed children at significant risk. Families reported skipping meals, reducing portion sizes, and prioritizing younger children when food was scarce. For many students, hunger became a daily distraction, affecting their health, concentration, and overall well-being. The strain on caregivers was immense, as they worked tirelessly to shield children from the worst effects of the crisis. 

In response, Life for Relief and Development (LIFE) implemented two coordinated MannaPack Rice distribution projects in December 2025. In Garasbaley District, LIFE distributed food assistance to 630 vulnerable households, supporting approximately 3,780 individuals. Each household received two boxes of rice, prioritizing families caring for orphaned and at-risk children in IDP settlements.  

Shortly after, LIFE expanded its reach in Somaliland, distributing 1,260 food baskets to children in Maraalay, Caracad, Qolqol, and Jirjir. LIFE directly managed all stages of both projects, from clearance and transportation to on-the-ground distribution, ensuring that assistance reached those most in need in an organized, safe, and transparent manner. 

The impact of these distributions was immediate and heartfelt. For families living day-to-day without food security, the rice provided stability during a critical period. Children who had been attending school on an empty stomach were able to eat regularly again.

Caregivers who had been forced to skip meals so their children could eat felt a renewed sense of life. Beyond the nutritional value, the assistance restored hope—offering reassurance that they were not forgotten during one of the most challenging seasons of their lives. 

Hassan, a displaced father in Garasbaley, shared his gratitude after receiving two boxes of rice for his family. Struggling with the effects of drought and displacement, he found it increasingly difficult to provide consistent meals. The food assistance, he explained, allowed his children to eat regularly again and eased the constant worry about where the next meal would come from. 

In Qolqol, 16-year-old Amina walked home carefully carrying her family’s food carton. “Now I won’t be hungry when I sit in class,” she said with a shy smile. Her teacher later noticed that she was more energetic, focused, and eager to participate. For Amina and many children like her, something as simple as a box of rice meant the ability to concentrate on their education instead of their hunger. 

These projects reflect LIFE’s ongoing commitment to stand with vulnerable families during times of crisis. Through careful planning and hands-on implementation, thousands of children and caregivers were reached in just a matter of days. 

To our generous donors, thank you. Your support made it possible to deliver life-sustaining food to families who needed it most. As food insecurity continues to threaten communities across the region, LIFE remains committed to expanding its reach, strengthening resilience, and ensuring that more children can grow, learn, and thrive without the burden of hunger.