Regional
Since late December, below-average and poorly distributed rainfall has led to abnormal dryness across a broad portion of Southern Africa, which will likely lead to reduced crop production.
Malawi
There are still about 162,000 people in temporary shelter sites in the six districts of Nsanje, Phalombe, Chkwawa, Zomba, Blantyre and Mulanje. Following recent rains over parts of Thyolo, Mulanje and Blantyre, the East Bank is once again inaccessible by road.
Mozambique
On 29 March strong winds occurred in Manica Province (Machaze district) which affected 905 people, resulted in the partial destruction of 181 houses and affecting 2 schools.
Madagascar
With a drought affecting southern Madagascar, the OCHA-managed Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF) approved a US$2.3 million request to support the provision of life-saving assistance to 23,800 children and women at risk of malnutrition, 65,000 persons at risk of food insecurity, and 9,000 persons at risk of water, sanitation and health (WASH)-related issues. A funding gap of US$4.8 million remains.
Rodrigues
Tropical Cyclone Joalane is forecasted to pass close by the island of Rodrigues (pop. 38,000) between 10 and 11 April. The situation is being closely monitored.