Southern Africa's Drought Crisis Deepens: UN Announces Worst Phase Imminent

Johannesburg - Southern Africa is grappling with an unprecedented drought, and the situation is expected to worsen, as confirmed by the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP). The current dry period is reported to be the most severe in a century, hitting hard on various countries in the region, notably Lesotho, Malawi, Namibia, Zambia, and Zimbabwe—all of which have declared a state of national disaster.

The lean season, identified as a critical time when food becomes scarce and hunger peaks between harvests, is set to inflict further hardship on the already strained populations. Lola Castro, the WFP's acting regional director for southern Africa, has expressed her concerns: "The worst period comes now." She further emphasized the point by noting the lack of harvest this year and the subsequent wait for the next one in April 2025.

The drought has ransacked crops, with Zambia and Zimbabwe losing up to 70 and 80 percent of their respective harvests. This massive decline in food production has led to skyrocketing food prices, leaving many families scrambling for alternatives to feed their loved ones. The frail maize, a staple in the region, stands "totally dry and down," painting a grim picture of the agricultural landscape.

In an effort to combat the crisis, the WFP is encouraging the adoption of more drought-resistant crops and has sought considerable funding to assist affected populations. Despite the El Nino cycle concluding, its repercussions remain severe. The WFP's request for $409 million in funding has so far been partially met, with roughly $200 million in contributions.

Amid such desperation, the WFP and local governments are seeking both immediate aid and long-term sustainable solutions, including crop diversification and improved resilience to climate challenges.