The IRC’s mission is to help people whose lives and livelihoods are shattered by conflict and disaster to survive, recover and gain control of their future. The IRC first began programming in Somalia in the 1980s, assisting individuals in the aftermath of the Somalia-Ethiopia conflict. After a brief suspension during the civil war, the IRC returned fully to Somalia in 2007, resuming its efforts to support communities.

Currently, the IRC implements programs across various regions in Somalia, including Benadir, Nugaal, Bari, Mudug, Sanaag, Hiraan, Galgaduud, Bay, Bakool, and Lower Shabelle, to help communities survive, recover, and develop. These programs focus on key sectors such as Health, Nutrition, Economic Development & Recovery, WASH (Water, Sanitation & Hygiene), Women's Protection and Empowerment (WPE), and governance.

Read our 2023 Fact Sheet to learn more about the IRC's work in Somalia.