Heavy rains and flooding during the past several weeks have been further aggravating living conditions for many Angolans whose lives have been already devastated by a civil war. The flooding caused extensive damage in southern Angola, particularly in the provinces of Benguela, Cunene, Huila and Namibe. Bridges over the Beiro and Giraul rivers in Namibe province have collapsed and railroad connections between the Port of Namibe and Huila province are cut, severely impacting the transport of humanitarian assistance. Large numbers of internally displaced persons and residents are in urgent need of shelter, food and basic non-food items. Inundated agricultural areas threaten to increase food insecurity.
Flooding is likely to create greater risk of contagious water-borne diseases, malaria and diarrhoea.
The media reported that at least 48 people, including 18 in the capital Luanda and 20 in Namibe province, have lost their lives due to the floods, quoting the Government's figures. According to the Government reports, more than 17,400 people may be without shelter. The situation in the commune of Dombe Grande is of concern. Flooding of the Rio Coporolo has obstructed road access to the areas of Canto, Senje and Luacho since early April, hindering the delivery of humanitarian assistance. After the consultation of local provincial authorities, the mission determined that the Government helicopters are needed for rapid assessments of the isolated communities and for delivery of food and non-food items.