El Niño Crisis - Water and Nutrition in Angola - World Vision 2016

October 2016 - As a result of a particularly strong El Niño event in the Pacific Ocean southern Africa is facing a devastating drought. Several seasons of failed rains in countries throughout the region have left nearly 30 million people facing food insecurity. In southern Angola the drought has affected more than 1.25 million people of whom 60% require immediate humanitarian assistance. Global acute malnutrition rates have exceeded 25% in some areas (well above the accepted emergency threshold of 15%). Water shortages have also increased leading to the spread of water-borne disease and livestock deaths. With GAC’s support World Vision is working to meet the humanitarian needs of an estimated 65 000 drought-affected people in Benguela and Huila Provinces in southern Angola. Through support to the local health authorities World Vision is improving access to screening and treatment for acute malnutrition in target communities. The repair or rehabilitation of local water points is providing access to safe water thus saving lives and protecting livelihoods.

The expected outcomes for this project include: (1) reduced levels of acute malnutrition; and (2) improved access to safe water for drought-affected communities in southern Angola. The expected ultimate outcome is lives saved suffering alleviated and human dignity maintained in countries experiencing humanitarian crisis or that are facing acute food insecurity.