On 6th September 2024, UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, called urgently for the inclusion of refugees and internally displaced people in the response to flooding across West and Central Africa. Flooding affected over 3.6 million people and further deteriorated the already bleak conditions faced by the displaced population in the region.
The most affected by the flood crisis are refugees and IDPs, many of whom live in precarious conditions. An estimated 1.2 million refugees and IDPs from countries such as Nigeria, Burkina Faso, and Mali are estimated to be living either in overcrowded camps or makeshift settlements. These groups tend to be forgotten during the response period in emergencies, despite having a place among the most vulnerable. The floods, hastened by climate change, have destroyed houses, infrastructure, and essential resources, leaving many in dire need.
UNHCR is demanding their inclusion in flood response strategies. It has appealed for 150 million dollars as emergency funding for provision of essential aid, including shelter, medical, and food to the neediest. The local authorities in the affected countries are enhancing disaster response mechanisms through collaboration with humanitarian organizations for an equitable and inclusive approach in the distribution of aid.
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To read more, visit:
- UNHCR Urges Inclusion of Refugees in Flood Response
- Greenpeace, A continent submerged: Africa’s flood crisis
- Save The Children, WEST AFRICA FLOODS: Nearly 950,000 people displaced and children sheltering in schools just weeks before school term starts
