Southern Africa Drought Assessment, March 24-April 29, 1992

摘要

In southern Africa, the most serious drought of the century is threateningwidespread famine and economic dislocation. The report assesses the drought and its impacts, and presents recommendations for famine relief and mitigation at both regional and country levels. An initial section analyzes the drought from a regional perspective, noting that circumstances present donors with a unique opportunity to implement effective famine relief: the famine early warning system (FEWS) has generated enough information to develop an effective response before the critical period of hunger begins in August/September 1993; most governments have already declared emergencies and have begun taking action; and a sound regional transportation infrastructure is in place. To be effective, famine relief will require regional-level coordination by organizations such as the Southern African Development Coordination Committee, and the cooperation of South Africa.