UNICEF appeals for US$34 million amid Zimbabwe’s devastating drought

UNICEF has launched an urgent appeal for US$34 million to address the severe water crisis in Zimbabwe, exacerbated by the El Niño-induced drought ravaging many parts of Southern Africa.

The appeal aims to provide safe water access to communities, health facilities, and schools facing water insecurity.

With only 81% of rural people having access to improved water sources, UNICEF noted that the situation is critical, especially in Matabeleland South and Masvingo Provinces, where nearly 4% of boreholes have dried up.

The El Niño drought has worsened water scarcity, increasing the risk of waterborne diseases, malnutrition, and child exploitation.

In a statement on Wednesday, UNICEF stated that access to safe water is crucial for children’s health, nutrition, education, and protection. “Safe Water 4 All” is essential for building resilient communities and ensuring healthy children, the organization stressed.

Through the WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) initiatives, in partnership with the government, UNICEF was able to set up a dashboard to track and monitor water systems in rural areas, provide more than 55,000 people in need access to safe water through rehabilitating 67 boreholes and developing 15 solar piped water systems, provide nearly 55,000 people with access to critical water supplies, including water treatment chemicals, soap and water containers.

The organisation also installed 50 health clubs in schools and communities to promote appropriate behaviour in times of reduced access to safe water.

UNICEF urges the government, donor community, and partners to prioritise interventions providing sustainable access to water, sanitation, and hygiene facilities for children and their families.

“UNICEF is calling upon the government, the donor community, and partners to prioritise interventions aimed at providing sustainable access to water,” WASH specialist Tariro Mavi stated.

“We all agree that when drought hits, the first priority that people focus on is food security. It’s important. But we also need water to be provided. Because if those people do not have access to safe water, how will they wash their hands?

“We are likely to see the increase in diarrhoea cases, which negates all the efforts that we would have made.”

The organisation’s emergency response in Zimbabwe requires US$3.9 billion, with UNICEF seeking US$84.9 million.

By prioritising access to safe water, UNICEF aims to protect children’s rights and build resilient communities capable of coping with climate change-related shocks.