📅 Date of Assessment: 16 October 2019
📍 Location: Beledweyne District, Hiraan Region
📝 Overview:
On 16 October 2019, a joint rapid assessment was conducted in Beledweyne District by local authorities, district administration, and humanitarian organizations—including HIDIG Relief and Development Organization—to evaluate the impact of devastating floods that affected the majority of the population.
The assessment team included representatives from government institutions, international NGOs, and local partners. The primary objective was to assess the scale of displacement, identify critical needs, and initiate coordinated emergency response efforts.
📊 Key Findings:
- Approximately 80% of the population was displaced from their homes due to the flooding.
- An estimated 55,000 households were forced to evacuate.
- Displaced families sought temporary shelter in safer areas not affected by the floods.
📍 Main Displacement Locations:
- Ceel Jaale (east of Beledweyne)
- Farmajabaaleey
- Baladadnuur
- Tuulo Dabeyl
- Several rural villages surrounding the Shabelle River
🚨 Impact on Public Services:
The floodwaters severely impacted road access and infrastructure, disrupting basic services including health, food, and water. HIDIG’s UNICEF-funded health project, which operated two Mother and Child Health (MCH) centers in Kooshin and Hilaac, was significantly affected. Flooded roads made it impossible for patients and staff to access the facilities.
🎯 Assessment Objectives:
- Conduct field visits to document and assess flood damage.
- Identify and prioritize the immediate needs of displaced populations.
- Facilitate joint planning among stakeholders for a rapid and coordinated emergency response.
🤝 Stakeholder Coordination:
Following the assessment, stakeholders collectively agreed to:
- Launch an integrated multi-sectoral emergency response.
- Restore critical health and WASH services.
- Enhance coordination among humanitarian actors to maximize coverage and avoid duplication of efforts.
📸 Photo Description:
The accompanying image captures representatives from Beledweyne district authorities, humanitarian agencies, and HIDIG staff during a field visit to one of the displacement sites. Children and families can be seen in temporary shelters as assessments were conducted.
💬 Quote:
“This assessment represents a collective commitment to stand with the people of Beledweyne during this critical time. Immediate action is needed, and HIDIG is ready to play its role in delivering emergency support,” — HIDIG Field Team.