CARE report describes effects of drought/food crisis in Zambia
"A short-term relief effort is
required to avert widespread hunger."
ATLANTA (May 21, 2002) - Drought
conditions in Zambia have left families with widespread crop damage and
prospects of hunger and malnutrition, according to a report released today
by the international humanitarian organization CARE.
The report, based on a survey conducted in six districts in Southern and Western Zambia, notes that eight out of 10 farmers reported maize crop failure in the range of 76-100 percent of anticipated yields. Over 80 percent of households reported their maize supplies will run out by June.
The current food situation is a complete reversal from the previous season, considered a 'normal' year. Yet, even in 'normal' years, families endure "hungry months," from November through January, by reducing the number of daily meals to make food supplies last. But with such a poor harvest this year, for many Zambians the "hungry months" have already begun. At the time the CARE survey was being compiled, 75 percent of the families had already reduced their meals. Three-fourths of those families were eating two meals a day and the remaining one-fourth only one meal.
Given the lack of fully-grown crops, many households have begun eating "green" mealies - crops stunted in growth by drought. After unripe crops, many said they will then turn to eating seed. The situation is likely to have a very negative impact on the next agricultural season (Sept.-March), as households will not have seed stock for either planting or eating.
The crisis in Zambia is part of an unfolding humanitarian need in Southern Africa, also affecting Malawi, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Swaziland, Lesotho and Namibia. CARE is among the humanitarian organizations responding to stave off famine that could affect 4 million people. Earlier in May, CARE received a $500,000 grant from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation to address the crisis in Malawi. Efforts are underway to increase assistance and save lives throughout the drought-stricken region.
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