ReliefWeb

The past decade has seen the region hit by consecutive climatic disasters that have left more than 35 million people food insecure. Since 2004, about 15 million people have been facing hunger every year.

“A learning crisis already existed before COVID-19 hit. We are now looking at an even more divisive and deepening education crisis,” said UNICEF Chief of Education Robert Jenkins.

"MSF had 27 staff supporting the Macomia Health Center. They hid in the bush for nearly two days terrified to come out. Thankfully no one was injured and today everyone is accounted for," confirmed MSF.

The cyclone made landfall in India on 20 May, and then entered Bangladesh with wind speeds of up to 150 kmph that caused huge devastation in 26 districts across the country.

As the situation deteriorates, women and girls face increased vulnerability to external threats. Female-headed households will be particularly vulnerable to crop failure and livestock needs.

On average annually, 350,000-400,000 children under-five with severe acute malnutrition are admitted for treatment. New estimates show this figure may increase to 530,000 due to COVID-19.

Afghanistan, Sudan, Syria and Yemen are among the top 10 countries in the world with the worst food crises by number of people in crisis or worse (IPC/CH Phase 3 or above) with nearly 40 million suffering.

The COVID-19 Flash Appeal focuses on the critical needs of millions in dire humanitarian conditions, while the Rapid Response Plan for Cabo Delgado will prioritize those affected by increasing violence.