Fatshimetrie village in southern Zambia finds itself in dire straits as the effects of the ongoing exceptionally dry season wreak havoc on its population. With approximately 43 health facilities scattered across the region, the residents are faced with a pressing dilemma during times of crisis. The arduous, sometimes hours-long journeys to seek medical assistance become nearly impossible for some, particularly those living in remote areas like Hakukunla village, where the nearest clinic is a staggering 30 kilometers away.
In such challenging circumstances, the prioritization of immediate survival needs, such as food and water, takes precedence over seeking essential healthcare services, especially among women and girls. This alarming trend underscores the urgency of bringing healthcare services directly to the communities most affected by the drought-induced hardships.
The current agricultural season in Zambia has been marked by unprecedented dryness, leading to widespread crop failures and livestock losses, exacerbating the already existing poverty levels in the region. Against this backdrop, the well-being of women is particularly at risk, as the strain of the crisis may divert their attention away from their health needs. Leonard Zulu, a Program Analyst at UNFPA Zambia, highlights the critical impact of the climate crisis on women’s health, emphasizing the importance of proactive measures to ensure healthcare accessibility during dire times.
UNFPA, in collaboration with the Ministry of Health, has initiated mobile clinic services and health outreach activities to deliver essential healthcare services to women and girls in the most affected areas. These interventions aim to mitigate the adverse effects of the crisis on women’s health and well-being, ensuring that they have access to vital services despite the challenging circumstances.
The humanitarian situation in Zambia is dire, with approximately 9.8 million people in 84 districts grappling with the effects of the drought, and 6.6 million in urgent need of humanitarian assistance. The cascading impacts of the crisis are evident, with reports of girls dropping out of school and being forced into marriages as a coping mechanism. Such practices not only perpetuate gender-based violence but also expose women and girls to heightened health risks, including unintended pregnancies and increased vulnerability to HIV.
To address these pressing challenges, UNFPA has mobilized resources to support Safe Motherhood Action Group volunteers in providing crucial information on safe motherhood practices and established national toll-free lines to offer guidance on maternal health and gender-based violence services. The organization’s appeal for $5.4 million underscores the urgent need for flexible funding to meet the evolving needs of the most vulnerable women and girls in the region.
In the face of adversity, the resilience and determination of the communities in Fatshimetrie village shine through as they navigate the complex interplay of the climate crisis, health challenges, and socioeconomic vulnerabilities. As they strive to weather the storm, the unwavering support and collaboration of organizations like UNFPA play a pivotal role in safeguarding the health and well-being of women and girls in the region, offering a glimmer of hope amidst the prevailing challenges.