The looming threat of this year’s “super” El Niño phenomenon poses a significant risk to women across East and Southern Africa, according to CARE International’s regional director, Walter Mwasaa. In an exclusive interview, Mwasaa highlighted the compounded dangers faced by women, particularly in light of recent cuts to foreign aid that have already strained vital resources for health and nutrition.
Severe Weather Patterns Ahead
El Niño, a natural climate event characterised by elevated sea surface temperatures in the Pacific Ocean, disrupts weather patterns globally. This year’s iteration is projected to be particularly intense, exacerbated by ongoing climate change. Mwasaa noted that while northern nations like Kenya and Ethiopia will likely experience increased rainfall, southern nations such as Malawi and Zimbabwe are bracing for severe droughts.
“The implications of this super El Niño for women’s health are alarming. We should see it as a pressing women’s health issue,” Mwasaa stated, emphasising the disproportionate impact such climatic events have on women, who often shoulder the burden of household care and community wellbeing.
Impact of Aid Cuts
The situation is further aggravated by drastic reductions in aid funding, particularly from the United States. CARE International’s budget for East and Southern Africa is set to plummet from approximately $250 million in 2024 to just $140 million by 2027. Mwasaa highlighted that Ethiopia’s programme funding has dramatically decreased from $130 million to a mere $15 million within the same timeframe.
These financial cuts have led to the closure of numerous health and nutrition centres, particularly in Somalia, where an alarming two million children are currently acutely malnourished. Mwasaa reported that many pregnant women are arriving at the few remaining facilities completely dehydrated and exhausted, having travelled for days without food or water in search of medical assistance.
The Gendered Nature of Climate Crisis
Research increasingly supports the notion that climate-induced disasters disproportionately affect women. For instance, in Bangladesh, a 40% rise in child marriages has been linked to environmental crises, while in Somaliland, girls are spending hours fetching water instead of attending school due to droughts. Mwasaa pointed out that after such disasters, families often prioritise boys’ education over girls’, and pregnant women face unique dietary needs that are frequently overlooked.
He recounted the harrowing story of a woman who had to give birth in a tree during floods in Mozambique, a situation that is likely to become more common as climate-related disasters intensify. “Mothers are often the hardest workers in providing food for their families, yet they receive the least rest and typically eat last,” Mwasaa explained.
Adapting to Climate Challenges
Mwasaa underscored that the focus on climate adaptation is diverting essential resources from programmes aimed at empowering women economically. “Our goal is to transition countries away from dependence on food relief, towards sustainable solutions in market access, education, and improved farming techniques,” he said. However, he warned that ongoing climate disasters limit these opportunities, as resources are increasingly allocated to emergency relief.
As CARE International grapples with dwindling support, efforts to engage private sector partners are gaining traction. While Mwasaa sees the potential benefits of reducing dependency on aid, he cautioned that practical challenges remain. “Development partners are urging us to find ways to engage with them, but often it’s difficult to identify products that are relevant and affordable for African communities,” he remarked.
Despite these challenges, Mwasaa expressed optimism about the emerging trend of pan-African cooperation. “We are witnessing a renewed commitment among African nations to support each other, particularly in addressing crises like Ebola and food security. This kind of ownership will be essential for successful development moving forward,” he stated.
Why it Matters
The implications of the impending super El Niño extend far beyond immediate environmental concerns. As women in East and Southern Africa face the dual threats of intensified climate challenges and reduced aid, their health, education, and economic opportunities are at risk of further decline. Addressing these issues is not just a matter of humanitarian concern; it is crucial for the sustainable development of the region. Empowering women to navigate these challenges is essential for building resilient communities that can adapt to an increasingly unpredictable climate.
