As El Nino conditions develop in the tropical Pacific, the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the World Food Programme (WFP) have issued an urgent appeal for over $200 million to support 8.8 million people across 22 high-risk countries, including several in Africa. This funding is crucial to combat the anticipated severe weather patterns expected to unfold in 2024.
El Nino's impact on African nations
El Nino is characterized by a warming of sea-surface temperatures in the Pacific Ocean, occurring every two to seven years, typically lasting nine to 12 months. Its effects can vary widely across regions; in Africa, the consequences are particularly concerning.
Countries like Cameroon, Ethiopia, Kenya, Madagascar, Malawi, Mozambique, Nigeria, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, Uganda, and Zimbabwe are among those most at risk. In southern Africa, past El Nino events have led to hotter and drier conditions, raising the threat of drought and food insecurity.
Preparedness and the challenges ahead
Experts warn that the real challenge lies in the ability of governments and aid agencies to respond swiftly to these impending crises. Abdikadir Aden Hassan, founder of Garissa Million Trees, highlighted the dual threat of drought followed by potential flooding, stating, "We are in a dry spell and are headed toward drought in August and September. Then, in October, November, and December, we are expected to have the short rains." This situation could severely disrupt livelihoods.
