At least 15 people die of hunger as 17 others perish in clan fighting in Baledweyne, central Somalia

At least 15 people have died of hunger in the last 24 hours in Baledweyne as clan clashes claim 17 others in a week of fighting, area mayor has said.

Omar Adan Ibrahim told Goobjoog News 15 people succumbed to hunger following heavy floods and fighting in Howlwadag locality which has cut off the area from any humanitarian support.

“I can confirm to you that 15 people have died within the last 24 hours. Many of them could not access food or any medical supplies. Four people were killed last night in fresh fighting,” said Ibrahim.

The mayor said he had ordered humanitarian agencies in the town to intervene or vacate the town in the next 24 hours.

Clan fighting started almost a week ago in Howlwadag while at the same time flash floods were destroying homes and forcing many to flee.

Goobjoog News correspondent in the area said the place remained cut off until Amisom forces cross to calm the fighting.

Ibrahim has called on the federal government to intervene to avert more deaths in the area.