Raxanreeb Online Mogadishu: The Somali National Bureau of Statistics (SNBS) has today launched the first-ever population development composite index (PDCI) tool that will aid the government, plan development, and allocate resources countrywide.

Speaking during the launch, the Somali National Bureau of Statistics Director General Dr. Abdisalam Mohammed said that the new tool will establish data-driven lens access to Somalia’s population dynamics and population gaps.

“PDCI strengthens evidence-based planning, supports accountability, and guides more efficient allocation of resources,” he added.

The Somali National Bureau of Statistics notes there is a need to put more emphasis in strengthening the health sector, enhancing national data collection, and building climate resilience planning.

His sentiments were echoed by the Minister for Planning, Investment, and Economic Development, H.E. Mohamud Bennebeene, who said the index will inform the national transformation plan and sector strategies.

The index will look at challenges in the key areas like reproductive health, mobility, governance, and sustainability, and priority areas for targeted action among women and girls, youth, rural and nomadic communities, and underserved regions.

The Somali National Bureau of Statistics, in its annual outlook report on internally displaced people (IDP), noted there is a need to have targeted interventions to safeguard mothers and children in IDP settings.

Their survey of 13,400 households across 603 enumeration areas in nine Moar IDP locations showed evidence on adult and child mortality and fertility health indicators.

SNBS showed progress in the sociodemographic survey of 2025 with a baseline across five districts of Kahd, Beletweyn, Kismayo, Baidoa, and Dhuusamareeb, which covered urban, rural nomadic, and IDP populations.

Preliminary findings indicate higher vacancy rates in IDP areas, which means there is a significant population movement.