UNICEF Botswana Flood Situation Report: Immediate Response and Recovery Needs
Botswana is experiencing severe flooding since February 16, 2025, displacing over 5,000 people and disrupting access to clean water, healthcare, education, and shelter. Infrastructure is badly impacted with road closures and power outages. UNICEF has partnered with the Botswana Red Cross to distribute essential supplies and is appealing for $860,000 to support recovery efforts.
Since mid-February 2025, Botswana has faced severe flooding due to intense rainfall, leading to the displacement of over 5,000 individuals, notably children. This crisis has obstructed access to vital resources such as clean water, healthcare, education, and shelter, disproportionately affecting the most vulnerable populations and heightening the risk of disease outbreaks.
The flooding has severely disrupted infrastructure, including road closures and power outages that hinder mobility and essential services. Health clinics in Molapowabojang and Kanye are particularly affected, facing significant service interruptions that compromise healthcare delivery in the region.
In response, UNICEF has allocated US$50,000 in collaboration with the Botswana Red Cross Society to distribute essential supplies, including hygiene kits and safe drinking water. They will also provide oral rehydration salts and establish connections to health facilities and child protection initiatives within evacuation centers.
Moreover, UNICEF has issued an appeal for US$860,000 to aid the government in delivering both immediate life-saving assistance and facilitating long-term recovery efforts in the affected areas.
The floods in Botswana since February 2025 have resulted in significant displacement and disruptions to essential services, particularly affecting the vulnerable populations. With the allocation of funds and a comprehensive response plan, UNICEF aims to provide critical supplies and support recovery initiatives amid this ongoing crisis. The situation underscores the urgent need for resources to address immediate humanitarian needs and facilitate long-term recovery efforts.
Original Source: reliefweb.int
