On 23 September 2026, the South West State Ministry of Internal Security issued a security advisory recommending the temporary suspension of non-essential travel to Baidoa because of heightened military activity and security risks in and around the city. The advisory reportedly applied to United Nations agencies, humanitarian organisations, local and international non-governmental organisations, diplomatic missions and development partners. Essential humanitarian and emergency movements were not prohibited, but organisations were advised to conduct security assessments, follow established procedures and coordinate movements with relevant authorities.
The advisory came amid repeated armed confrontations in Baidoa. On 28 September, renewed fighting between federal forces and forces aligned with the former South West State administration reportedly blocked roads leading to hospitals and disrupted civilian movement. Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) reported that a health facility was severely damaged, an ambulance was looted and a healthcare worker was killed.
The developments create additional security and access constraints for civil society and humanitarian organisations operating in Baidoa and may affect their ability to reach communities, deliver services, conduct assessments and engage with local populations.