Recent floods in Cameroon have affected over 400,000 people, displacing thousands and devastating communities already grappling with acute food insecurity. Rising food prices, conflict, displacement, and climatic shocks have compounded the challenges for vulnerable populations, particularly in the northern regions. In response, the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) has launched an urgent assistance program to support 200,000 flood-affected individuals.
The Impact of the Floods
The October floods have wreaked havoc in the Far North region of Cameroon:
- Over 400,000 individuals and 68,000 families have been affected.
- Over 56,000 homes have been destroyed.
- 262 schools and 65 health centers are damaged.
- More than 82,000 hectares of farmland are underwater, threatening food supplies.
- Among those impacted are 139,000 children and 29,000 pregnant women.
Many families have fled to safer areas like Kousseri and Logone et Chari, where they are relying on temporary camps or relatives. Despite efforts from the government and aid organizations, resources are quickly depleting. WFP reports that only 22% of the required US$ 17.7 million has been secured, leaving an urgent funding gap.
WFP’s Emergency Flood Response
To mitigate the crisis, WFP has launched a three-pronged response:
- Emergency Food Distributions
WFP is delivering essential food items such as cereals, pulses, cooking oil, and salt to 200,000 affected individuals. These distributions aim to meet immediate dietary needs over the next three months. - Emergency Nutrition Assistance
To combat malnutrition, particularly among women and children, WFP provides nutritional supplements and promotes healthy eating habits to strengthen resilience in flood-hit communities. - Cash Transfers
Flood-affected families are receiving cash transfers of 9,000 XAF (US$ 15) per person per month from September to December 2024. This empowers families to purchase preferred foods, ensuring better dietary choices while supporting recovery.
Urgent Need for Funding
WFP urgently requires US$ 17.7 million to sustain its operations and prevent further deterioration of food and nutrition security. Without immediate support, thousands of displaced families, including children and pregnant women, face severe health risks.
WFP’s critical response has been made possible thanks to funding from donors such as USAID’s Bureau for Humanitarian Assistance, the European Commission’s Humanitarian Aid & Civil Protection, Germany, and internal WFP emergency funds.
Conclusion
The floods in Cameroon underscore the urgent need for global solidarity and timely humanitarian assistance. WFP’s efforts are crucial in addressing this crisis, but additional funding is essential to meet the overwhelming needs of affected communities. Together, we can help rebuild lives and restore hope for the people of Cameroon.
