Southern Africa Humanitarian Crisis Snapshot: January 2025
In January 2025, Southern Africa faces a humanitarian crisis due to severe drought, floods, and disease outbreaks affecting millions. An estimated 22 million individuals require urgent assistance, with 45 million experiencing food insecurity. Malnutrition and cholera outbreaks represent major health challenges. Despite appeals for aid, funding shortages continue to impact relief efforts.
In January 2025, the humanitarian situation in Southern Africa remains dire following unprecedented climate events and related crises in 2024. A severe El Niño caused the worst drought in recorded history, compounded by devastating floods and cyclones, leading to humanitarian needs for approximately 22 million individuals in the region. Food insecurity has escalated, with 45 million people facing critical shortages, prompting several countries, including Zambia, to declare national disasters.
The impact of these crises has been particularly devastating for vulnerable populations. Malnutrition rates among children have surged, with over 4 million young children requiring treatment for stunting. Moreover, water scarcity has heightened the risk of waterborne diseases, culminating in the deadliest cholera outbreak of the past decade, which resulted in over 70,000 reported cases and 1,374 fatalities.
Tropical storms and cyclones affected the region significantly, causing destruction and displacing thousands of individuals. Cyclone Belal struck Mauritius in January, followed by the impactful Severe Tropical Storm Filipo in Mozambique and Cyclone Gamane in Madagascar. By December, Cyclone Chido further affected several countries, emphasizing the ongoing environmental vulnerabilities faced.
Displacement continues to be a pressing issue, with approximately 829,000 internally displaced persons and 676,000 refugees residing in the region. Humanitarian partners have intensified their responses, engaging in life-saving activities and Anticipatory Action programs. Despite efforts and a series of Flash Appeals for funding in response to the crises, financial shortfalls have hindered effective capacity to respond to the escalating needs.
The humanitarian crisis in Southern Africa has been exacerbated by a combination of climatic shocks, economic challenges, and conflict throughout 2024. The severe El Niño event precipitated record-breaking drought and flooding, prompting widespread food insecurity and increased rates of malnutrition among young children. Public health has also suffered, with cholera and measles outbreaks emerging as significant threats amid reduced access to safe water. Additionally, the impact of tropical storms has been profound, affecting infrastructure and displacing numerous families across affected nations. Countries in the region have sought international assistance to respond to these critical crises, with various appeals targeting urgent humanitarian support. The overall context underscores vulnerability to climate-related and other crises within Southern Africa, necessitating continued advocacy and resource mobilization for comprehensive solutions.
The humanitarian landscape of Southern Africa is critically impacted by a combination of severe climatic events and public health crises. With millions in need and reports of increasing malnutrition and disease outbreaks, concerted efforts are vital to address these challenges. Funding and support to humanitarian initiatives remain crucial to restore stability and safeguard vulnerable populations across the region.
Original Source: reliefweb.int
