Millions in Southern Africa Facing Hunger Due to Severe Drought With precision, Zanyiwe Ncube carefully poured her portion of precious cooking oil into a plastic bottle at a food distribution site in rural Zimbabwe.
The aid, funded by the United States government, aimed to assist those affected by the severe drought plaguing the region. Ncube’s relief at receiving aid was short-lived as workers informed her that this distribution would be their final visit.
Alongside 2,000 others in the Mangwe district, she collected supplies provided by the American aid agency USAID and the United Nations’ World Food Program to combat the hunger crisis affecting 2.7 million rural Zimbabweans due to the prolonged drought. In neighbouring countries like Zambia and Malawi, the situation has escalated to national disaster levels.
The impact extends to Botswana, Angola, Mozambique, and Madagascar, where communities face food shortages and extreme weather conditions. The climate crisis in southern Africa has intensified, with erratic weather patterns causing devastation to crops and livelihoods. In Zimbabwe, the lack of rainfall has destroyed agricultural prospects, leaving many like Ncube without food or income.
The severity of the drought has pushed people to desperate measures, with reports of illegal crossings in search of sustenance. The United Nations Children’s Fund warns of overlapping crises in the region, affecting millions, particularly children, who are in urgent need of assistance.
While climate change plays a significant role in the region’s challenges, the current situation is exacerbated by the El Niño phenomenon, leading to below-average rainfall and prolonged drought conditions. As aid agencies struggle to meet the growing demand for assistance, millions face the prospect of prolonged food insecurity well into 2025.
The humanitarian crisis in southern Africa requires urgent attention and support to prevent widespread malnutrition and suffering among the most vulnerable populations.
