Namibia

Funding appeals and humanitarian action updates

The Government of Namibia declared a state of emergency on 5 March 2008 in light of the localised floods in North and North-East Namibia, particularly in the regions of Omusati, Oshikoto, Oshana, Ohangwena and Caprivi. The floods are due to the above average rainfall during January and February 2008 and the inflow of water from the Cuvelai river system in southern Angola. The Northern regions of Namibia are the most densely populated areas in the country with an estimated 529,000 people living in the five regions. In addition, HIV rates across these regions vary between 20-40%. As a result the North has an estimated number of 170,000 orphans and vulnerable children, the majority of whom are affected by the current emergency. Overall, it is estimated that over 65,000 people could be displaced as their livelihoods and immediate environment have been badly affected, while another 200,000 people could be affected indirectly.
Due to the flooding health concerns are rising and the Ministry has reported a cholera outbreak in the flood-affected areas. In addition, there have been reports from the Caprivi region of a drastic upsurge in the number of reported skin disorders and other diseases such as conjunctivitis, ringworm, respiratory tract infections and chicken pox. The issue of safe drinking water is paramount because drinking water sources have likely been contaminated. With the flooding, pit latrines, which are the most commonly used form of sanitation in the rural areas, have become unusable. 
The floods have also caused substantial damage to roads and other vital infrastructure, including schools. At least 44 schools in Omusati, 33 schools in Ohangwena and 20 schools in Oshana region are temporarily closed.
UNICEF is requesting an initial US$ 1,200,000 to meet the immediate and medium-term needs of children and women throughout the affected areas.
Namibia Immediate Needs Document 20 Mar 2008 [pdf]