Around 68 million people in Southern Africa are suffering from an El Niño-induced drought that has devastated crops and caused widespread food shortages, according to the Southern African Development Community (SADC).
El Niño drought affects 68 million in Southern Africa
A man walks alongside a dried up stream in Mudzi, Zimbabwe, on July 2, 2024.
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The drought, which began in early 2024, has severely impacted agriculture and regional economies.
Leaders from the 16-nation SADC gathered in Zimbabwe's capital, Harare, to address regional issues, including the pressing food security crisis. SADC Executive Secretary Elias Magosi stated that about 68 million people, or 17% of the region's population, now require aid.
Despite a $5.5 billion appeal for humanitarian assistance, donations have fallen short.
The drought, alongside the conflict in eastern Congo, is a key focus of the summit.