Flash Update #2: Devastating floods sweep through West and Central Africa

Widespread flooding continues to devastate West and Central Africa, with nearly 5.1 million people requiring humanitarian assistance. The worst-affected countries include Chad, where nearly 2 million people have been impacted, followed by Niger, Nigeria, and Cameroon, which are also facing severe displacement and damage to essential services. The flooding has exacerbated public health risks, including a surge in cholera cases, and has disproportionately affected women and girls, who face increased risks of gender-based violence (GBV), miscarriages, and other health complications. Urgent needs include food, healthcare, GBV prevention and response, and water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) services.

In response, UNFPA is deploying mobile clinics, distributing life-saving medical supplies, and offering integrated SRH and GBV services across the affected regions. In Cameroon, UNFPA has adapted programs in flood-hit areas, providing antenatal care to over 800 women and assisting in more than 570 births. UNFPA has also distributed dignity kits and coordinated with local governments to expand services. In Chad, 248 midwives have been deployed to support SRH/GBV services, with over 11,000 dignity kits distributed. UNFPA in Mali has provided clean delivery kits and mobile health services to over 1,600 women and girls, while Niger has distributed dignity kits and food supplies to pregnant women in hard-hit regions like Maradi. Additionally, UNFPA Nigeria is addressing the needs of displaced populations by providing comprehensive GBV and SRH services to over 90,000 people, including prenatal care and mental health support.

UNFPA urgently needs $7.8 million to continue providing life-saving assistance to flood-affected populations across the region. With increased funding, UNFPA can ensure that women and girls have access to essential SRH and GBV services, safeguarding their health and well-being amid this ongoing crisis.