Pope Leo XIV Raises Alarm Over Somalia as Aid Funding Falls

Pope Leo XIV appealed for international aid during the Angelus prayer to address a deepening humanitarian crisis in Somalia. The Pope expressed concern that violence and extreme weather are worsening living conditions for the population, specifically for women and children.

The crisis has left approximately 6 million people, or one in three residents, facing critical hunger. Among those affected are about 1.9 million children under the age of five suffering from acute malnutrition. Low rainfall and insecurity have hindered access to markets, essential services, and humanitarian assistance.

The World Food Programme has reduced its emergency food assistance in the region, serving just over 600,000 people compared to its previous reach of more than 2 million. The Pope asked the international community to respond generously to ensure people in Somalia receive necessary assistance.