Zimbabwe Seeks $2 Billion in Aid Amid Severe Drought Crisis

President Mnangagwa declares national disaster as El Nino-induced drought threatens over 2.7 million people with food insecurity.

Zimbabwe declares a national disaster in response to a severe drought caused by the El Nino weather pattern, calling for $2 billion in aid to address the crisis.
The drought has affected over 2.7 million Zimbabweans, threatening food security and electricity production due to reliance on hydroelectric power.
Southern Africa faces a widespread food crisis, with neighboring countries Malawi and Zambia also declaring national disasters due to the drought.
The World Meteorological Organization reports this El Nino as one of the five strongest ever recorded, with impacts expected to continue fueling above-normal temperatures.
Efforts are underway to mobilize international support and resources, including a $5 million allocation from the U.N.'s Central Emergency Response Fund for immediate needs.