Zimbabwe is facing a devastating El Niño-induced drought, leaving millions in need of urgent assistance. Children are especially vulnerable, with increased risks of malnutrition, disease, and school dropouts.
UNICEF is appealing for $84.9 million to fund its emergency response, targeting 1.34 million people, including 866,000 children. Their interventions focus on providing life-saving support in water, sanitation, hygiene, nutrition, education, and child protection.
The drought has crippled harvests, with over 60% of crops lost. This lack of food puts children at risk of malnutrition, which can lead to death from common illnesses. UNICEF is working with the government and partners to prevent this by: Supporting community-based Care Groups that provide counseling and support on health, nutrition, child development, and hygiene; distributing micronutrient powders and teaching mothers how to screen their children for malnutrition; providing high-quality treatment services for children suffering from malnutrition.
UNICEF’s urgent appeal is critical to avert a worsening crisis and protect the lives and wellbeing of Zimbabwe’s children.
Source: UNICEF Zimbabwe
