The United Nations (UN) in collaboration with the Government of Malawi Wednesday launched a $136.5 million (about K239 billion) Flash Appeal to address the devastating impacts of El Niño-induced drought currently affecting the country.
In a statement released Wednesday, the UN said the appeal seeks to provide life-saving assistance, including food, to 4.7 million most vulnerable people.
The appeal follows a declaration of a State of Disaster in 23 out of the country’s 28 districts by President Lazarus Chakwera on March 23 due to inadequate rains and prolonged dry spells that have severely damaged crops and food production.
Preliminary assessment of the impact of El Niño, referenced in the state of disaster declaration, indicated that nearly two million farming families, representing over nine million people, have been experiencing substantial losses in agricultural production.
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According to the UN, the food security situation in the country is precarious, with 4.2 million people projected to face acute food insecurity between May and September this year, according to the latest Integrated Food Security Phase Classification analysis.
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It adds that with the impacts of the drought, these people will struggle to meet their basic food needs.
UN Resident Coordinator Rebecca Adda-Dontoh said the severity of the drought calls for immediate and coordinated action.
“This Flash Appeal is designed to support the national response efforts, addressing urgent needs and filling critical gaps to ensure comprehensive relief.
“We must act swiftly to prevent a humanitarian catastrophe and support the people of Malawi in this time of crisis,” Adda-Dontoh said.
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The Flash Appeal aims to complement the National El Niño-induced prolonged dry spells and Floods Response Appeal launched by the Government of Malawi in April 2024.
It seeks to build upon national initiatives and address areas not covered by the national plan, ensuring that the response is comprehensive and effective.
“The priority for this appeal is food assistance, which requires approximately $50.7 million to support food procurement, distribution and cash transfers to the most vulnerable people.
“The funds will be crucial in providing immediate relief and preventing further deterioration of the food and nutrition security situation in the country,” the UN says.
