Southern Africa: Humanitarian Challenges Following the 2024 Crisis

In early 2025, Southern Africa faced critical humanitarian needs with 22 million people needing assistance due to severe drought, floods, disease outbreaks, and economic shocks in 2024. Food insecurity affected approximately 45 million individuals, with heightened risks of malnutrition, particularly among young children. Cyclones and internal conflicts contributed to widespread displacement, highlighting the urgent demand for humanitarian support despite funding challenges.

In 2024, Southern Africa experienced its worst mid-season dry spell in over a century, alongside floods, cyclones, disease outbreaks, economic shocks, and armed conflict, leading to heightened humanitarian needs. An estimated 22 million individuals required urgent assistance, illustrating the severe impact of these calamities across the region.

A significant El Niño event triggered the worst drought recorded in Southern Africa, exacerbating the situation. Countries like Botswana, Lesotho, Malawi, Namibia, Zambia, and Zimbabwe declared national disasters due to the drought, resulting in severe food insecurity that left approximately 45 million people facing critical food shortages. Additionally, over 4 million children under age 5 needed treatment for stunting related to malnutrition.

Water scarcity, aggravated by climate shocks, increased the likelihood of waterborne diseases. The region endured the most deadly cholera outbreak in a decade, with around 70,000 reported cases and 1,374 deaths. Outbreaks of other diseases, including mpox and measles, were also noted, further complicating the health crisis.

The region faced destruction and displacement from four tropical storms and cyclones, impacting around 610,000 individuals. Notable storms included Tropical Cyclone Belal in Mauritius, Severe Tropical Storm Filipo in Mozambique, Tropical Cyclone Gamane in Madagascar, and Tropical Cyclone Chido, which affected multiple nations at year-end.

The ongoing climate and economic shocks, along with conflicts in northern Mozambique, resulted in the displacement of many. Currently, the region accommodates approximately 829,000 internally displaced individuals and 676,000 refugees requiring assistance.

In response to the critical humanitarian situation, partners have intensified efforts in advocacy and resource mobilization. Life-saving programs and Anticipatory Action initiatives have been implemented, accompanied by several Flash Appeals for nations like Malawi, Mozambique, Madagascar, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. However, continued funding shortages hinder further response capabilities.

The humanitarian situation in Southern Africa has rapidly deteriorated due to a combination of climate-related disasters, economic crises, and conflicts. The effects of a strong El Niño caused unprecedented drought and flooding conditions, resulting in significant food insecurity and health crises. The unending cycle of natural disasters and human conflict has placed immense pressure on vulnerable populations, necessitating a comprehensive humanitarian response.

In summary, Southern Africa is confronting a multifaceted humanitarian crisis exacerbated by severe climatic events, economic instability, and conflicts. The urgent need for humanitarian assistance affects millions, with particular emphasis on food insecurity and health crises among children. While response efforts are ongoing, significant challenges remain due to funding shortages.

Original Source: reliefweb.int