UNICEF reported over 178,000 cholera cases in Eastern and Southern Africa from January 2024 to March 2025, with inadequate water and sanitation services as critical factors. The overwhelming number of cases has primarily affected children, making up significant proportions of cases in South Sudan and Angola. Efforts must be bolstered to address the challenges posed by unsafe water and hygiene practices, especially amid climate change impacts.
In Eastern and Southern Africa, over 178,000 cholera cases have been reported from January 2024 to March 2025, according to UNICEF. This alarming statistic is exacerbated by inadequate access to water, sanitation, hygiene, and healthcare services, leading to nearly 2,900 fatalities, primarily among children. The lack of safe water access remains a fundamental concern for child health and survival.
Cholera outbreaks have significantly impacted South Sudan and Angola, with children under the age of 15 representing 50 percent of cases in South Sudan and 40 percent in Angola. From September 2024 to March 2025, South Sudan reported over 40,000 cases and 694 deaths, marking its worst outbreak in two decades. Angola has documented more than 7,500 cases and 294 deaths amid escalating risks of further outbreaks across its 14 provinces.
Data from 2022 revealed that approximately 120 million individuals, including 60 million children, in Eastern and Southern Africa are consuming unsafe water. Alarmingly, around 174 million people lack access to hygiene facilities, and at least 71 million resort to open defecation. The adverse effects of climate change, such as floods and droughts, have led to the destruction of critical infrastructure, compounding the risks of cholera.
Unsafe drinking water is linked to severe infections and diseases, including cholera, and can hinder children’s educational access, particularly among girls during menstruation. Girls disproportionately shoulder the responsibility of water collection, further complicating their access to education during water shortages.
UNICEF collaborates with governments and NGOs to enhance access to clean water and sanitation in the region, promoting essential hygiene practices to safeguard children against infectious diseases. On this World Water Day, UNICEF reiterates its commitment to children in humanitarian crises and calls upon governments to prioritize support for water and sanitation initiatives.
UNICEF urges the inclusion of adequate funding for crisis-responsive water systems, enhanced political commitment for improving access, investments in climate change adaptation, and increased capacity in the water and sanitation sector. “Investing in climate-resilient WASH infrastructure is crucial for child wellbeing,” emphasized UNICEF’s Regional Director Etleva Kadilli, highlighting the need for ongoing support to ensure children’s futures are protected.
For additional insights, multimedia materials are accessible via specified links. The associated health and WASH specialists are available for engagement, as UNICEF continues its work to uplift the most disadvantaged children worldwide.
The cholera crisis in Eastern and Southern Africa highlights severe shortcomings in water, sanitation, and hygiene services, endangering children’s lives amidst worsening climate conditions. Urgent actions, including political commitment and financial investments in resilient systems, are essential to combat the ongoing cholera outbreak and ensure the well-being of children during crises. UNICEF’s dedication, alongside partnerships, is paramount for fostering sustainable solutions to secure a healthier future for all children.
Original Source: reliefweb.int
