In 2024, Southern Africa faced a severe humanitarian crisis driven by extreme climatic conditions, economic shocks, and conflicts, leading to the need for urgent humanitarian assistance for 22 million people. The region experienced significant drought and flooding, prompting states of emergency in multiple countries, severe food insecurity for approximately 45 million individuals, and a deadly cholera outbreak. Tropical storms further exacerbated the situation, and despite extensive humanitarian responses and appeals, funding shortages hindered aid delivery.
In 2024, Southern Africa faced unprecedented humanitarian challenges due to the worst mid-season dry spell in over a century, compounded by floods, disease outbreaks, economic instability, and conflict. An estimated 22 million individuals required immediate humanitarian aid. The region felt the effects of a significant El Niño, resulting in severe drought and flooding, particularly in Tanzania, leading to heightened food insecurity affecting around 45 million people.
Countries such as Botswana, Lesotho, Malawi, Namibia, Zambia, and Zimbabwe declared national disasters due to the drought, which resulted in widespread malnutrition among young children. Over 4 million children under five years old required treatment for stunting. Water scarcity and decreased access to clean water amplified the risks of waterborne diseases, exacerbated by climate shocks and other factors, as evidenced by the deadliest cholera outbreak in a decade in 2024, totaling 70,000 cases and 1,374 fatalities.
The region endured four tropical storms, leading to destruction and displacing thousands of individuals while affecting approximately 610,000 people. Significant storms included Tropical Cyclone Belal in January 2024, followed by Severe Tropical Storm Filipo in March, Tropical Cyclone Gamane in Madagascar, and finally Tropical Cyclone Chido in December, which impacted several nations.
Continued climate and economic shocks, alongside conflict in northern Mozambique, contributed to increasing displacement. The region currently hosts 829,000 internally displaced individuals and 676,000 refugees. In response to the situation’s severity, humanitarian agencies enhanced their efforts, mobilizing resources, and implementing life-saving actions through anticipatory action programs.
Flash Appeals were launched for Malawi, Mozambique, Madagascar, Zambia, and Zimbabwe to address the crises efficiently, supporting governmental and regional efforts. However, funding shortages have impeded response capacities.
The humanitarian landscape in Southern Africa has been significantly impacted by a series of climate-related events combined with economic difficulties and conflicts. The effects of the 2024 El Niño phenomenon initiated the worst drought on record, while other natural disasters led to widespread food insecurity and health crises among vulnerable populations, particularly children. The regional response has involved multiple nations and humanitarian organizations working collectively to address the pressing challenges.
In summary, the humanitarian crisis in Southern Africa in 2024 resulted from catastrophic climatic events, widespread food insecurity, and public health challenges. Despite concerted efforts from humanitarian organizations and governments, funding shortages remain a critical barrier to effectively addressing the needs of millions of affected individuals. Continued advocacy and resource mobilization are essential to alleviate the suffering and restore stability in the region.
Original Source: reliefweb.int
