Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Jarson Malowa
Published on 2024-04-03 06:55:59
The World Food Programme (WFP) is currently facing a critical situation as they strive to secure $70 million (approximately K120 billion) to assist two million individuals who are experiencing acute hunger as a result of the El Niño-induced drought. This initiative comes following President Lazarus Chakwera’s declaration of a State of Disaster on March 23rd this year.
Paul Turnbull, the WFP Country Representative, emphasized the urgent need for assistance in a statement released by the agency’s communications department in Lilongwe. Turnbull highlighted the significant impact of El Niño on the people of Malawi and stressed the necessity for immediate action to prevent a potential hunger catastrophe.
The El Niño phenomenon has exacerbated the already dire consequences of the ongoing climate crisis in Malawi. The country continues to grapple with the aftermath of tropical storms and cyclones that struck in 2022 and 2023. Prolonged dry spells have resulted in crop damage in districts throughout the Southern and Central Regions, while flooding has caused crop destruction in Northern and parts of the Central Region.
President Chakwera’s declaration of a State of Disaster in 23 out of Malawi’s 28 districts affected by El Niño conditions underscores the severity of the situation. The government’s initial assessment indicates that nearly two million farming households and 749,000 hectares of land, equivalent to 44% of the national crop area, have been negatively impacted.
As a consequence, the upcoming 2024-25 lean season is predicted to be earlier and more severe than usual. WFP is planning to address the immediate food assistance needs by seeking $70 million to provide emergency aid to two million individuals over a three-month period. This assistance will involve a combination of in-kind food distribution and cash transfers to support households affected by the crisis.
The collaborative effort of the international community is crucial in ensuring that the food needs of the vulnerable populations in Malawi are met in a timely manner. WFP’s appeal for funding underscores the urgency of the situation and highlights the importance of swift action to alleviate the suffering of those impacted by the El Niño-induced drought.
In conclusion, the $70 million sought by WFP will play a vital role in saving lives and preventing a hunger catastrophe in Malawi. The agency’s efforts, combined with the support of the international community, will make a significant difference in providing relief to those affected by the devastating impacts of El Niño and the ongoing climate crisis in the region.
Read the original article on The Times
