Support Urgently Needed for Flood-Affected Women Southern Africa

*]:pointer-events-auto scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]" dir="auto" tabindex="-1" data-turn-id="request-69886e02-1980-832b-802a-1be59adff365-0" data-testid="conversation-turn-164" data-scroll-anchor="true" data-turn="assistant"> Flood-affected women across Southern Africa face an escalating humanitarian emergency following severe and prolonged rainfall that has triggered deadly flooding in several countries. Lives have been lost at alarming rates, with the highest impact recorded in Mozambique , where displacement has reached catastrophic levels. Gender inequality already present across communities has deepened the crisis, leaving women and girls disproportionately exposed to harm.

Recent observations from temporary accommodation centers in Maputo reveal distressing living conditions. Overcrowding defines daily life in these shelters, where women with infants and young children make up most of the displaced population. Children account for more than half of those forced from their homes, while thousands of pregnant women face heightened risks without adequate care.

After-Math of the Flood in South Africa Living conditions inside these centers remain dire . Shortages of food, clean drinking water, hygiene supplies, and private sanitation facilities persist. Limited access to healthcare services compounds these challenges and increases exposure to gender-based violence, exploitation, and abuse. Safety concerns remain constant for women and girls who lack secure spaces and confidential reporting channels.

Expansion of emergency shelters continues across Mozambique, yet delivery of essential services lags behind growing needs. Authorities face capacity constraints, but protection of women and girls must remain central to every response effort. Coordination between national institutions and international partners plays a critical role in restoring dignity, safety, and access to basic services for displaced families. Monitoring and accountability systems also require strengthening so survivors can report violations without fear.

Damage to critical infrastructure has further intensified the crisis. Collapsed roads and bridges limit rescue operations and restrict access to clinics and hospitals. Reports describe women giving birth while stranded by floodwaters, awaiting assistance under life-threatening conditions. Disaster response strategies must prioritize pregnant women and girls by guaranteeing access to sexual and reproductive healthcare throughout relief and recovery phases.

Disaster risk reduction efforts across the region should align with standards set by the Maputo Protocol , which emphasizes protection of women’s rights and inclusion in decision-making. Recognition of the unique challenges faced by women and girls affected by flooding remains essential for building resilient, equitable recovery systems.