06-11-2025 | di COOPI

COOPI alongside the most vulnerable communities in Beletweyne, Somalia

In the Hiran region, in Beletweyne — located in central Somalia — families are often forced to leave their homes due to instability and the effects of the climate crisis. Many seek refuge in displacement camps such as Haliya, where COOPI – Cooperazione Internazionale is implementing the project “Integrated assistance (food security and cash assistance) and nutritional support to the most vulnerable population in the Hiran region, Somalia”, funded by the World Food Programme (WFP).

Every day, around 450 people receive rations of cereals and legumes — a concrete form of aid that allows many to survive in a context marked by scarcity of resources and rising child malnutrition. Despite these efforts, needs remain high, as more than 700,000 people in Somalia risk losing access to food assistance. Refugee camps are often overcrowded, and families manage to eat only one meal a day.

A COOPI field work tells in a video report from Beletweyne

“When I walk among the tents in the camp, I see hardship on every face — but also strength and dignity. Now is the time to stand together to protect vulnerable people and ensure that no family is forgotten.”

The voice of Huseen: cooperation and progress

Among those who have dedicated themselves to supporting Somali communities is Huseen Abdullatigad, 73, born and living in Beletweyne. In his story, Huseen shares his personal journey and his special connection with Italy, where he studied the language during the 1960s and 1970s. Today, he plays an active role in community mobilization supporting COOPI’s projects.

“For me, the word cooperation means living in peace with others and building a good future together. COOPI is doing very important work, especially in times of disaster: it saves thousands of human lives at risk of dying.”

His message is both a hymn to hope and a call for international solidarity — to continue supporting those who, like him, work every day for the progress and dignity of their community.

COOPI has been operating in Somalia since 1981, carrying out humanitarian and development initiatives in the areas of food security, education, water and sanitation, and protection. In fragile contexts such as Beletweyne, the organization works side by side with communities to strengthen resilience and ensure that no one is left behind.