The World Food Programme's Response to the Drought in Southern Africa

Right now, the SADC region is battling one of the most severe droughts ever experienced, made worse by climate change, prolonged dry spells and one of the worst El Niño events on record. By way of example, the Victoria Falls are down to a mere trickle and Lake Kariba (located between Zambia and Zimbabwe) is just 4,6% full.  So far in 2024, maize production has fallen by 20% in South Africa, 54 percent in Zambia, and 72 percent in Zimbabwe. According to the latest WFP reports, an estimated 45 million people are currently facing severe food insecurity, with the most vulnerable populations being located in Zimbabwe, Mozambique, and Zambia. As agricultural production declines and food insecurity escalates, the World Food Programme (WFP) is stepping up its efforts to address the crisis, aiming to save lives, alleviate hunger and support affected communities. Their approach is fourfold:

• Emergency Food Assistance: The WFP is currently deploying rapid response teams to provide food aid in the most affected areas. This assistance includes distribution of staple foods like maize, beans, and fortified cereals. 
• Cash-Based Transfers: Recognising the importance of local markets, the WFP has implemented cash-based transfer programs that empower families to purchase food from their local vendors, which benefits both parties.
• Nutritional Support: To combat rising malnutrition rates, the WFP is intensifying its nutritional programs with specialised food supplements for children and mothers and education campaigns about dietary diversity and hygiene practices.
• Building Resilience
  The WFP is also focused on long-term strategies to enhance community resilience against future shocks. Initiatives such as improving agricultural practices, providing training on climate-smart agriculture, and investing in water conservation techniques are integral to these efforts. 

However, significant challenges still lie ahead. According to Reliefweb, the WFP still immediately requires an additional USD 370 million to provide food and cash assistance to over 6.5 million people across Southern Africa up to March 2025. As the situation evolves, continued support from the international community will be essential to ensure that vulnerable populations can recover and cope in the face of adversity, and to collectively create a sustainable future for the SADC region.