Drought's Impact on the Community

After the President of the Republic of Zambia declared the drought as a national disaster, the United Nations promptly responded to assess the impact on the affected population's lives and provide relevant support to the government's response plan. In Rufunsa, one of the 84 districts affected by an unforgiving drought, the harsh realities of climate change have manifested themselves in the form of devastating crop failures. As this crisis engulfs the entire district, the relentless efforts to avert food insecurity have become an urgent priority.

Amidst these arduous circumstances, the youngest and most vulnerable members of the community, the children, bear the brunt of this unforgiving climate, making it crucial to examine and address their plight. Join us on a journey as we witness the impact of the drought on Mpanshya village and the unwavering determination of the United Nations to find sustainable solutions that ensure no one is left behind amidst the turmoil.

The first visit for UN principals, including the Assistant Secretary General for Climate and Crisis Coordinator, Reena Ghelani, UNICEF Regional Director for Eastern and Southern Africa, Etleva Kadilli, and Zambia Resident Coordinator, Beatrice Mutali, was a courtesy call on the District Commissioner. During the visit, the District Commissioner briefed them on the drought situation in Rufunsa and discussed the government's efforts to alleviate the impact on local communities.

Headwoman Regina Phiri states that following a thorough evaluation of Mpanshya village, it is disheartening to report that no community member will witness any yield from the 2023-2024 farming season. The maize and supplementary crops have unfortunately succumbed to the devastating effects of the prolonged drought scenario.

She also revealed that the extended drought has caused the underground water table to recede significantly, leading to prolonged pumping times. To ensure fair distribution, the community has implemented a water rationing system. Every household in her village is now requested to limit their water usage by pumping only once from the communal borehole.

The visit to the farm fields in Mpanshya village of Rufunsa district proved to be an enlightening experience for UNICEF Regional Director for Eastern and Southern Africa, Etleva Kadilli. Farmers from diverse backgrounds, including the esteemed village headwoman Regina Phiri, generously shared their personal stories and shed light on their strategies for coping with the challenges posed by the drought.

Unified efforts in countering climate change and food insecurity: Reena Ghelani, UN Assistant Secretary General, Percy Suze, FAO Zambia Representative, Honorable Sheal Mulyata (MP), Minister for Lusaka province, Etleva Kadilli, UNICEF Regional Director for Eastern and Southern Africa, and Alex Chipo Mapushi, Lusaka province Deputy Permanent Secretary. Informed by Gabriel Pollen, Zambia’s National Coordinator for the Disaster Management and Mitigation Unit (DMMU), they discuss the Government's proactive response to the climate crisis.

In order to gain deeper insights into the current situation, delegates from the United Nations and the local Government dedicated valuable time to actively engage with community members in Mpanshya village. This diverse group encompassed male and female farmers, participants from savings groups, expectant and nursing mothers, youths, and representatives from the community resource boards. Through this interactive meeting, a wealth of knowledge was shared, shedding light on the lessons learned from the prevailing climate crisis. Moreover, the gathering unveiled a range of strategies that the community, in collaboration with their leaders, are implementing to effectively mitigate the situation and safeguard their future agricultural yields from imminent losses.

During the visit, the visitors gained insights into the profound effects of the drought on education in Rufunsa. Representing the learners of Nkoloma Combined School, Anna Mwemwetela, a 9th-grade student, talked about the coping strategies employed by female learners in the face of this adversity. Due to the challenging circumstances caused by the drought, some young girls find themselves entering relationships with older men to secure financial support, as their parents struggle to provide food for their families. Consequently, these girls often face unintended pregnancies, leading to their premature departure from school.

She eloquently highlighted the dire consequences of limited water availability in schools, specifically emphasizing its detrimental impact on menstrual hygiene management among adolescent girls. Consequently, such challenges lead to increased absenteeism, hindering their academic progress and overall well-being.

UNICEF's Regional Director for Eastern and Southern Africa, Etleva Kadilli, highlighted the crucial significance of children's survival and wellbeing in the face of the climate crisis. Underlining the joint efforts of UNICEF and the UN system, she emphasized their partnership with the Government of the Republic of Zambia to mitigate the severe impact on children's lives. To achieve this, Kadilli urged the community to actively participate in innovative farming methods taught in the farmer field school. These methods include conservation farming, intercropping and the cultivation of supplementary crops, which play a vital role in ensuring children receive adequate nourishment to support their growth and development.

The day concluded with heartfelt gratitude from the visitors towards the community members of Mpanshya village, who generously offered their time and shared invaluable insights about the profound impact of the drought on their lives.

The United Nations in Zambia has put together a multi-hazard preparedness and response plan to support Government-led efforts and is calling upon international partners to join forces with the UN, to be able to provide emergency assistance and boost preventive measures and sustainable recovery.

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