The region, already grappling with a severe hunger crisis, is facing an even more dire situation as a result of the floods.
WFP is working tirelessly to provide critical food and nutrition assistance to nearly one million people in the affected areas. However, the scale of the disaster demands a coordinated regional response to save lives and protect livelihoods.
“The floods have caused widespread destruction, leaving thousands of people displaced and facing food insecurity,” said Margot Van der Velden, WFP’s Regional Director for Western Africa. “We must act swiftly to prevent a further deterioration of the situation.”
WFP is prioritizing emergency assistance to flood-affected families, providing food, cash, and other essential support. In Nigeria, WFP has established food kitchens in flood-affected areas to provide nutritious meals to displaced families. In other countries, WFP is distributing food and cash to help people meet their basic needs.
To mitigate the long-term impacts of the floods, WFP is calling for investments in early warning systems, anticipatory actions, disaster risk financing, and social protection systems. These measures can help build resilience and reduce the vulnerability of communities to future climate shocks.
“Anticipatory actions are essential for effective humanitarian response,” said Van der Velden. “By investing in early warning systems and preparedness measures, we can save lives and protect livelihoods.”
The floods have disrupted farming and livestock activities, exacerbating the region’s food security crisis. WFP is working with governments and partners to strengthen anticipatory actions and expand disaster risk financing to help communities cope with the impacts of climate change.
In Niger, WFP is using early-warning messages and community radios to reach 200,000 people at risk of food insecurity. In other countries, WFP is collaborating with governments to strengthen social safety nets and target assistance to affected populations.
WFP urgently requires US$ 16 million to continue its life-saving work in the region. By providing emergency assistance and supporting long-term resilience-building efforts, WFP aims to help West and Central Africa recover from this devastating crisis.
ABJ/APA