Background

Over the past two weeks, escalating political tensions and confrontation between the Federal Government of Somalia and the SouthWest State authorities significantly increased insecurity in Baidoa. As the disagreement intensified, both parties mobilized forces around the city. On 30 March 2026, federal forces assumed control of Baidoa, the epicenter of the political dispute. Although large-scale armed clashes did not occur, following the withdrawal of state forces and a largely peaceful takeover the prolonged tension and fear of imminent fighting triggered pre-emptive mass displacement.

Source: Reliefweb