Oxfam: Funding to mitigate loss and damage needs immediate action

The need for timely funding to address the impact of the climate crisis in East Africa has become increasingly urgent as communities face unprecedented challenges following severe weather events. CNBC Africa recently spoke with Juliet Moriku Balikowa, Oxfam Country Director for Somalia, to shed light on the devastating situation in the region. East Africa, including Somalia, is currently grappling with the aftermath of a 40-year drought, which has been exacerbated by heavy rainfall and flooding induced by El Nino. The rainfall, which is part of the annual rainy season running from October to December, has been particularly intense this year, leading to widespread destruction and loss of life. Over 1 million people have been displaced, with 2.4 million individuals affected in central and southwest Somalia alone. The impact on farmland, housing, and infrastructure has been staggering, posing a significant risk to food security in the country. Oxfam and other organizations are working tirelessly to provide life-saving assistance, including water, food, sanitation facilities, and essential kits to those in need. However, the current level of funding is insufficient to meet the immediate and long-term needs of the affected communities. Despite collaborative efforts between the UN, government, and NGOs, a significant funding gap remains, hampering the recovery and rehabilitation process. The humanitarian response plan for Somalia, with a budget of 2.6 billion for the year, is only halfway funded, underscoring the dire need for additional financial support. In light of the recent COP28 UN conference in Dubai, there is a growing emphasis on the importance of anticipatory funding to mitigate the impact of climate-related disasters. While efforts have been made to prepare for extreme weather events, the scale of funding falls short of what is required to effectively address the challenges at hand. Juliet Moriku Balikowa emphasizes the need for greater financial resources to support anticipatory action and community adaptation to climate change. She highlights the critical role of communities in responding to and preparing for climate events, stressing the importance of education and investment in sustainable practices. By empowering communities and providing them with the necessary resources, it is possible to build resilience and enhance livelihoods in the face of ongoing environmental challenges.