Poverty in Somalia
- Maelie Ciccioli
- Jan 25, 2023
- 2 min read
Somalia is one of the poorest countries in the world, with an estimated 70% of the population living below the poverty line. This poverty is the result of a combination of factors, including a lack of economic opportunities, ongoing conflict and insecurity, and a lack of basic infrastructure and services.

The poverty in Somalia is the lack of economic opportunities. The country has been in a state of war and political turmoil for decades, which has led to the destruction of infrastructure and a lack of investment. As a result, many Somalis rely on subsistence farming or herding to make a living, but these activities are often impacted by drought and other environmental factors. Additionally, the ongoing conflict in the country has led to limited access to markets, making it difficult for people to earn a stable income.
Lack of access
Another example of poverty in Somalia is the lack of access to basic services such as healthcare and education. Many Somalis live in rural areas with little or no access to healthcare facilities, and as a result, maternal and child mortality rates are among the highest in the world. Similarly, many children do not have access to education, and the literacy rate in Somalia is one of the lowest in the world.

This lack of education and healthcare services leads to a cycle of poverty, as uneducated and unhealthy individuals are less likely to be able to find good jobs and support themselves and their families.
Population

Another example of poverty in Somalia is the displacement of the population. Due to the ongoing conflict and insecurity, many Somalis have been forced to flee their homes and become internally displaced persons (IDPs) or refugees in neighboring countries. These individuals often face difficult living conditions and have limited access to basic services, making it even harder for them to escape poverty.
The government of Somlia
Furthermore, the poverty in Somalia is exacerbated by the lack of good governance and corruption. The government is weak and unable to provide basic services to its citizens, and corruption is rampant at all levels of society. This makes it difficult for individuals and organizations to access the resources they need to improve their lives, and it also creates a lack of trust in the government, which further undermines the possibilities of development. In addition, the country's economy is primarily based on agriculture and livestock which are both dependent on the climate. Droughts and floods are frequent, which leads to food insecurity and loss of livelihoods. These environmental challenges further contribute to the poverty in the country.

In conclusion, poverty in Somalia is a complex and multifaceted issue that is driven by a lack of economic opportunities, ongoing conflict, limited access to basic services, displacement, lack of good governance and corruption, and environmental challenges. To address poverty in Somalia, it is important to address the root causes of the issue, including addressing the ongoing conflict, investing in infrastructure and services, and creating economic opportunities. Additionally, good governance and anti-corruption measures are crucial in order to build trust in the government and create an environment that is conducive to development.
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