In a bid to alleviate the devastating impact of Southern Africa’s worst drought in recent history, the World Bank has approved a staggering $208 million grant to support Zambia’s emergency response efforts.
This vital assistance will provide a financial safety net for over 1.6 million households across 84 drought-stricken districts, more than doubling the monthly cash transfers to $16.60 per household for a year.
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As the region grapples with the severe effects of El Niño and climate change, Zambia’s driest agricultural season in over four decades has left millions in dire need of aid. The grant aims to cushion the blow, enabling vulnerable families to access basic necessities and withstand the drought’s ravaging impact on food security and livelihoods.
With Malawi and Zimbabwe also declaring a state of disaster, the World Bank’s timely intervention offers a beacon of hope in a region battered by climate extremes. As the international community rallies to support those affected, this grant serves as a testament to the power of collective action in the face of adversity.