THE European Union (EU) has availed €3 million to the World Food Programme (WFP) vulnerable urban communities in three southern African countries to explore viable pathways for the United Nations agency, governments and partners to reduce and mitigate the impact of climate shocks in the countries.
The funding, meant for Lesotho, Mozambique and Zimbabwe as well as Madagascar, an island country lying off the southeastern coast of Africa, is also aimed at understanding, identifying and addressing the various risks faced by the communities, which are disproportionately affected by climate disasters and often resulting in devastating impacts on their livelihoods.
The funding follows experiences from COVID-19 highlights indicating the inadequate support provided to urban residents by emerging social protection systems in sub-Saharan Africa.
According to WFP, building on the crucial insights gained in its first phase in 2021, the project will work with regional, national and local authorities to develop guidance from the Southern African Development Community.
Through a multi-sectoral participatory approach, the two-year project endeavours to enhance the capacity of the national disaster management authorities, social welfare and local governments in improving co-ordination and collaboration for preparedness and response activities in cities.
“We are grateful for the European Union’s support, made through its Humanitarian Aid Department. The contribution from the European Union will help governments and WFP to prepare and empower urban communities by strengthening resilience to withstand recurring multiple hazards.
“This will be done by ensuring emergency readiness and response that address urban dwellers’ essential needs through targeted cash-based transfers, which uphold dignity and promote their self-reliance,” WFP acting regional director for southern Africa Lola Castro said.
Southern Africa is facing an escalation in rates of malnutrition, coupled with widespread food insecurity among the rural and urban populations.
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This year, more than 30 million people across southern Africa have been affected by the severe El Niño-induced drought.
“However, even before the drought, the levels of food insecurity and humanitarian needs were high, driven by socio-economic challenges, high food prices and the compounding impacts of the climate crisis,” WFP said.
“WFP and EU remain steadfast in their commitment to provide humanitarian assistance and support to the most vulnerable people.
“This contribution underscores the shared dedication to humanitarian principles and the pursuit of a world with zero hunger.”
