WFP Early Action Programs Counter Drought Effects, Benefiting Southern African Farmers

The World Food Programme (WFP) has proactively tackled the challenges of drought in southern Africa with anticipatory action projects, aiming to help farmers like Shupikai Chaparapata in Zimbabwe’s Mudzi district. While Chaparapata’s maize suffers from persistent dry conditions, her drought-resistant sorghum thrives, thanks to the seeds provided by the WFP. In response to the re-emergence of the El Niño climate phenomenon and the predicted escalation of drought, the WFP launched a significant initiative. Collaborating with governments and humanitarian partners, WFP’s $12.8 million initiative seeks to aid over 500,000 people across Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Madagascar, and Lesotho. Through this program, drought-tolerant seeds, safe water provisions, and early warning alerts are distributed. In emphasizing the importance of proactive measures, Menghestab Haile, WFP’s Regional Director for Southern Africa, stated that early actions are not just cost-effective but crucial to saving lives.