Considering that emergency shelters are a temporary solution, and the average displacement period is more than seven years, the Shelter Cluster in Somalia is encouraging all stakeholders to scale up and enhance the response through greater focus on transitional and durable shelter solutions delivered through owner-driven, area-based approaches that empower affected communities. The provision of adequate shelter provides an enabling platform for advocacy with local government entities for the increase in access to secure land ownership for IDPs, and increased potential for the integration of displaced persons among hosting communities.

Transitional or durable shelters improve the living conditions of IDPs as well as their physical and mental health. They protect against the elements and improve safety, especially with regards to women and girls who are more at risk of forms of gender-based violence, including sexual exploitation and abuse. The construction of durable shelters also has a positive impact on the local economy as they require materials produced locally and they increase livelihood opportunities for affected populations.