Climate change, forced pastoralist migration, and zoonotic spillover in Somalia: a neglected one health threat to regional health security

Abstract

Climate change is reshaping pastoralist mobility across Somalia, creating overlooked pathways for zoonotic disease emergence. Recurrent droughts, floods, and environmental degradation force livestock-dependent communities into new ecological interfaces where humans, livestock, wildlife, and vectors increasingly interact. Weak surveillance, fragile health systems, and limited cross-border coordination further heighten outbreak risks. Strengthening One Health surveillance through community-based reporting, mobile health and veterinary services, integrated laboratory systems, and regional data sharing is essential to improve early detection, reduce spillover risk, and strengthen health security in the Horn of Africa.