Flooding and landslides in Eastern Africa have left almost a million people in Burundi, Kenya, Somalia, and Tanzania in dire need of humanitarian assistance. The region has been hit by unusually heavy rains, worsened by the 2023-24 El Niño climate phenomenon, resulting in the loss of hundreds of lives and widespread destruction.
Homes, schools, and infrastructure have been damaged, and crops and livestock have been lost. Many families have been forced to flee their homes, seeking shelter in makeshift shelters or evacuation centers. Women and children, who are already vulnerable to discrimination and violence, are facing even greater risks in the wake of the disaster.
In Kenya, schools have been closed for weeks due to the floods, with a cholera outbreak affecting 48 people. In Somalia, over 160,000 individuals, two-thirds of whom are children, have been impacted by the flooding.
UNICEF is working closely with governments and local partners to address the urgent needs of affected communities. Efforts include providing emergency relief, clean water, hygiene kits, and medical supplies. The organization is also focusing on ensuring the continuity of education, protecting children from violence and exploitation, and promoting access to essential services.
Climate change has intensified extreme weather events in Eastern and Southern Africa, leading to prolonged droughts and severe floods. UNICEF is working with partners to implement climate-resilient solutions, empower children and young people, and advocate for reduced greenhouse gas emissions.
As the region faces escalating climate crises, UNICEF emphasizes the importance of sustained support from donors and multilateral climate funds to save lives and strengthen the resilience of vulnerable communities. The organization, along with governments and local partners, is committed to delivering lifesaving interventions and preparing for potential surges in humanitarian needs.