Zimbabwe has declared a drought, induced by El Niño, a national disaster. President Emmerson Mnangagwa stated the need for $2 billion in aid to support the millions facing hunger. "No Zimbabwean must succumb or die from hunger," he declared, emphasizing the critical need for intervention. The drought has compromised food security for over 2.7 million people, with agricultural production severely affected by poor rainfall. The expected grain harvest will not meet national requirements, intensifying the crisis.
The El Niño weather phenomenon has caused prolonged dry spells and high temperatures across southern Africa, affecting Zimbabwe, Malawi, and Zambia. This declaration aims to mobilize resources to tackle the drought's consequences, including food shortages and reduced electricity production due to reliance on hydroelectric power.
The World Meteorological Organization notes this El Niño as one of the strongest recorded, with anticipated continued above-normal temperatures. The Food and Agriculture Organization highlights the urgent need for international cooperation to address the resulting food insecurity risks in major food-producing regions of southern Africa.
Source: en.wenews.pk