El Niño may worsen hunger for 1.84 million Mozambicans

CARE Mozambique warns that 1.84 million people may face severe food insecurity due to drought linked to El Niño, jeopardizing the upcoming agricultural season. Affected communities are still recovering from previous floods and face shortages of food, water, and seeds. Women and girls are expected to bear the brunt of the crisis, struggling to secure food and water while managing household responsibilities. A rapid assessment revealed that water scarcity forces them to travel further for water, increasing risks of early marriages and health issues. Despite the alarming forecasts, support for these communities remains limited, with 93% reporting no assistance. The organization calls for urgent action to provide adequate seeds, water access, and immediate aid to families facing hunger, urging governments and donors to invest in resilient agriculture and support vulnerable communities before the next planting season.