Garowe, 25 December 2021: Save the Children is deeply saddened by the reports of children being killed and displaced in the recent conflicts in Bosaso in the Puntland state of Somalia. It is unfortunate that children’s lives and learning have been directly impacted by the conflict and that many families have been displaced from their homes at a time the country is faced with severe droughts and hunger.  Children often bear the brunt of such conflict in Somalia. For the children who were injured in these incidents, their suffering may last for years. Many could experience anxiety, depression or even signs of post-traumatic stress disorder.

We urge for restraint so that children can access education, health, and other basic services.  Parties to the conflict should also ensure children and schools are never targets and should respect international humanitarian and human rights laws by taking all necessary actions to minimize incidental harm on children and civilian lives. Schools and other vital infrastructure such as hospitals should not be targeted.

As of June 2021, the United Nations verified 4,714 grave violations against 3,810 children in Somalia in which the killing and maiming of 1,087 children[i][1] were reported. The recent clashes can only make the situation worse.