A natural climate phenomenon that occurs every 2-10 years, El Nino brings warmer ocean temperatures, leading to droughts or floods. In Madagascar, droughts are more common, particularly in the south, which has experienced prolonged droughts. The drought results in reduced crop yields, affecting household incomes. According to Faniry Hantarinivo, President of Hina, while El Nino is unavoidable, its impacts on people's lives can be prepared for.
Recent IPC analysis for April 2026 to May 2027 warns that one in ten children under five may face severe food insecurity if no action is taken. Approximately 75% of the southern population will experience severe food insecurity, with over 3 million people in phase 3 and 400,000 in phase 4, indicating a state of total emergency. Hina is calling for immediate action to address the impending El Nino effects in Madagascar.
Hina emphasizes the need for proactive measures, including public awareness campaigns on food conservation and access to clean water, particularly for irrigation in the south. Strengthening emergency response systems, such as Creni, Crenas, and Crenam, at healthcare centers is also crucial. The council urges the government to develop and implement emergency plans to mitigate the impacts of El Nino.
The effects of El Nino in Madagascar will be severe, with significant impacts on food security and household incomes. The southern region, already vulnerable to drought, will be particularly affected. The government must take immediate action to address the impending crisis and prevent further humanitarian suffering.
Hina's call to action emphasizes the need for a comprehensive approach to address the impacts of El Nino. This includes not only emergency response but also long-term strategies to build resilience and mitigate the effects of climate-related disasters. The government must prioritize the social sector and allocate resources to address the impending crisis.
The allocation of funds to address El Nino's impacts has not been disclosed. However, the government has emphasized the importance of prioritizing the social sector and implementing measures to mitigate the effects of the phenomenon. The response to El Nino will require a coordinated effort from government agencies, humanitarian organizations, and local communities.
As Madagascar prepares for the impacts of El Nino, the government and humanitarian organizations must work together to develop and implement effective emergency response plans. The National Nutrition Council's call to action highlights the need for urgent measures to address the impending crisis and prevent further humanitarian suffering.
Key points
- Madagascar's National Nutrition Council urges the government to develop emergency plans to mitigate the effects of El Nino.
- One in ten children under five may face severe food insecurity if no action is taken.
- The government must prioritize the social sector and allocate resources to address the impending crisis.
