Highlights
• Although Swaziland experienced rainfall across the country in October, water table levels have remained relatively the same and many areas continue to face acute water stress. A threeday water-rationing cycle has been introduced in the urban centres and communities in Lubombo region, served by Mnjoli Dam, which is currently only at 4.9% capacity.
• Swaziland has received $100,000 from UNICEF’s Global Humanitarian Fund to implement preparedness activities to mitigate the risks and impact of severe weather events such as floods or severe storms. The funds will be used to support UNICEF and national preparedness efforts.
• Severe storms in October have caused localised damage to health and education facilities as well as housing. Regional government teams are leading the impact assessments. UNICEF Swaziland will determine its response based on the findings of the assessments.
Situation Overview & Humanitarian Needs
The impact of the El Niño-induced drought continues to be felt across Swaziland with no significant change or improvements in the situation in October. Rain has been received at nominal levels across the country but has been insufficient to offset the acute water stress that communities are experiencing. Water-rationing, which continues in Mbabane, has now been introduced in communities served by the Mnjoli Dam. There have been a number of severe storms in October throughout the country resulting in localised damage to schools, health facilities and shelters.