The climate change in Malawi linked to El Niño remains a concern.

Development Diaries reports that up to 40 percent of Malawi’s population faces starvation as a result of the cumulative effects of tropical storms and cyclones that struck the nation in 2022 and 2023, according to data from the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP).

According to the government of Malawi, close to two million farming households and 749,000 hectares, representing 44 percent of the national crop area, have been affected by El Niño storms.

El Niño storms have had a significant impact on Malawi, affecting various sectors of the economy and the livelihoods of its people.

These extreme weather events have led to a disruption of farming schedules, reduced crop yields, and threatened food security in a country where a significant portion of the population depends on subsistence farming.

To worsen the situation, extended dry spells have damaged crops in the southern and central regions of the country, while flooding has destroyed crops in the northern and central regions, according to WFP.

It is more worrisome because the resulting food shortage is leading to malnutrition and worsening poverty levels, particularly in rural areas where access to alternative food sources may be limited.

We understand that the WFP is currently appealing for urgent resources to deliver life-saving food assistance to two million people reeling from the devastating impacts of drought.

Development Diaries calls on Malawi’s Department of Disaster Management Affairs (DODMA) to improve efforts in disaster preparedness, climate adaptation strategies, and sustainable development practices.

Source: WFP

Photo source: OCHA