El Niño threatens millions in eastern and southern Africa, UN enhances preparedness

El Niño is intensifying rainfall and flooding across eastern and southern Africa, putting an estimated 20 million people at risk of displacement, food insecurity and disease. The United Nations, through its humanitarian agencies and the Climate and Disaster Resilience Programme, has stepped in to strengthen local preparedness. In Kenya, Tanzania, Mozambique and Malawi, the UN has supplied early‑warning systems, emergency shelters and community‑based water‑sanitation kits, while coordinating with national governments to mobilise relief supplies and train volunteers in flood‑risk mitigation.

The UN’s response also includes climate‑adaptation projects that aim to build more resilient infrastructure and promote drought‑resistant agriculture. In partnership with regional bodies, the agency is working to improve forecasting accuracy and to disseminate risk information via radio and mobile platforms, ensuring that vulnerable populations receive timely alerts. By integrating these measures into national disaster‑management plans, the UN seeks to reduce the immediate health and economic impacts of the El Niño event.

As the season continues, the United Nations remains committed to scaling up support, monitoring the evolving risk landscape, and helping communities adapt to the changing climate. The organization’s efforts aim to safeguard lives and livelihoods while building long‑term resilience against future climate shocks.