In response to the urgent humanitarian needs in remote and conflict-affected areas of central Somalia, Matansom is acting as a Humanitarian & Development Inviter — mobilizing both local and international stakeholders to conduct a joint humanitarian relief assessment.

This coordinated effort aims to gather accurate, ground-level information to inform appropriate, timely, and targeted interventions.

Background

Somalia continues to face compounding humanitarian and development challenges, particularly in central regions where communities are highly vulnerable to drought, conflict, displacement, and limited access to basic services. In response, Matansom Somalia Development International Organization (MSDIO) is initiating a Joint Humanitarian and Development Assessment to gather evidence-based data on the current situation, identify urgent needs, and support the design of coordinated interventions.

This assessment seeks to provide a holistic understanding of both immediate humanitarian gaps and long-term development priorities in targeted districts within Galmudug State, specifically areas most affected by climate shocks, insecurity, and displacement.

Objectives

1. Map out priority needs of affected populations across key sectors (WASH, Health, Food Security, Education, Shelter, Protection).
2. Identify service delivery gaps, coordination challenges, and existing community capacities.
3. Collect quantitative and qualitative data through community consultations, FGDs, and direct observation.
4. Produce a joint assessment report with actionable recommendations for stakeholders

Scope of the Assessment

• Geographic Focus: Target districts in Central Somalia including main, accessible locations, villages and rural settlements under the districts of  Galkacyo Dhusamareb, Abudwak, Hobyo and Harardhere in Galmudug State of Somalia.
• Population Groups: IDPs, host communities, pastoralists, returnees, women, youth, and persons with disabilities.
• Thematic Areas:
  • Humanitarian: Food, WASH, Shelter, Protection, Health, Nutrition.
  • Development: Education, Livelihoods, Governance, Infrastructure, Environment

Methodology

The assessment will use a mixed-methods approach, including:

• Key Informant Interviews (KIIs) with local authorities, elders, health workers, teachers, NGO staff.
• Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) with community members, including women, youth, IDPs.
• Transect walks and direct observation of facilities, shelters, water points, and markets.
• Secondary data review of previous assessments and reports.
• Use of mobile data collection tools (e.g. KoboToolbox, ODK) where possible