Kosti is the most populated locality followed by Aldueim, Alquiteina and Rabak, but Kosti and Rabak are the most densely populated localities. The population of the area is around 136,000 in addition to huge number of refugees (120,000) and returnees (68,000). Generally, the settlements in Es Salam locality are scattered with some concentrations around productive agricultural areas, trading centres, and water sources. El Selame, El Ahamd, El Gemea, Awlad Hassan, Mashalga and Uwesab are the permanent pastoralist tribes. Hasaneya and Husonat are cattle breeder tribes, while El Kababeesh and Bany Garar are camles breeders.
Other tribes such as Taisha, Mesarya, and Hawasset are most of the year moving with their animal from place to place as per water and pasture availability. Within the area, 7 camps to accommodate the refugees and re-turnees are existing. Their estimated population exceed 120,000. Needs for food, energy and health protection are on top of the issues facing these groups.
- The population in the area is increasing due to refugees and returners
- It is a movement area for pastoralists, farmers and refugees
- High competition in the productive areas and water resources that can cause conflicts
- Over use of natural resources that causes the drought such as overgrazing and deforestation
- The forecast for 2030 and 2050 expects the rise in temperature in the area and also the area will suffer from drought
