Southern Africa experienced unprecedented humanitarian crises in 2024, affecting 22 million people due to drought, cyclones, and disease outbreaks. Food insecurity reached alarming levels, particularly among children. Four tropical storms caused destruction, displacing thousands. Urgent humanitarian responses were launched, although funding shortages hindered effectiveness.
In 2024, Southern Africa faced unprecedented humanitarian challenges due to extreme weather patterns, including the worst mid-season dry spell in over 100 years, alongside floods, cyclones, disease outbreaks, economic shocks, and conflict, affecting 22 million people in urgent need of assistance.The region experienced a strong El Niño effect leading to the most severe drought recorded, resulting in dire food insecurity affecting approximately 45 million individuals. Countries such as Botswana, Lesotho, Malawi, Namibia, Zambia, and Zimbabwe declared national disasters in response to the drought, which severely impacted child nutrition, with over 4 million children under age five requiring treatment for stunting. Water access decreased, heightening risks of waterborne diseases, contributing to the deadliest cholera outbreak in the last decade, with 70,000 cases and 1,374 deaths reported. Additionally, four tropical storms and cyclones caused extensive destruction and displaced thousands, impacting around 610,000 individuals across several countries, including Madagascar and Mozambique. Climate shocks, economic instability, and conflict in northern Mozambique resulted in the displacement of 829,000 internally displaced persons and 676,000 refugees. In light of these urgent needs, humanitarian efforts were intensified, advocating for resources and implementing life-saving activities. Flash Appeals were initiated to tackle crises in Malawi, Mozambique, Madagascar, Zambia, and Zimbabwe, aimed at aiding government assistance and supporting the regional appeal by the Southern African Development Community (SADC). Corroborating these efforts, however, funding shortages continued to hinder comprehensive response capacities.
In January 2025, the humanitarian landscape in Southern Africa highlighted challenges stemming from a combination of climate change, socio-economic issues, and health crises. The severe drought and flooding have gravely impacted food security and child health. The context also reflects the ongoing effects of the El Niño phenomenon, underscoring the intersection of natural disasters with human vulnerability, displacement, and widespread need for assistance across multiple regions.
The humanitarian crisis in Southern Africa is marked by significant challenges, including extensive drought, food insecurity, and disease outbreaks. Urgent international mobilization and financial support are required to address the immense needs of the vulnerable populations affected by these multifaceted crises. The humanitarian community remains committed to implementing effective responses, though funding gaps pose a considerable obstacle.
Original Source: reliefweb.int
