El Nino Crisis - Food Security and Nutrition in Zimbabwe - Development and Peace 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 Zimbabwe the drought has affected more than 2 million people and this number is expected to rise to more than 4 million by the beginning of 2017. Global acute malnutrition rates have risen to their highest level in fifteen years and water shortages have increased the risk of the spread of water-borne disease and lead to the death of some 25 000 cattle. With GAC's support Development and Peace is addressing the humanitarian needs of an estimated 47 850 drought-affected people in the Mudzi District of Mashonaland East Province in north-eastern Zimbabwe. Through support to the local health authorities Development and Peace is improving access to screening and treatment for acute malnutrition in target communities. The provision of agricultural inputs (seeds tools small livestock) to vulnerable households is improving food security and 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; (2) improved food security; and (3) improved access to safe water for drought-affected communities in Zimbabwe. 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.