Eswatini | Drought - Early Action Protocol Activation, 9th September 2026 (EAP2023SZ01/MDRSZ005)

Country: Eswatini Source: International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies Please refer to the attached file. Early action protocol Activation Activation Overview Baphalali Eswatini Red Cross Society (BERCS) has activated its Early Action Protocol for drought following National forecasts indicating a high probability of an El Niño-induced drought season in Eswatini. Seasonal outlooks and forecast monitoring conducted through the Anticipatory Action Technical Working Group (AATWG), National Meteorological Services and Regional climate information systems indicated an elevated likelihood of below-normal rainfall in the October to December season (Figure 1). This is expected to lead to reduced water availability and worsening food insecurity conditions across drought-prone areas, particularly in the Lubombo, parts of Lowveld, parts of the Highveld and Middleveld. The trigger threshold in the Drought Early Action Protocol was reached when the OND forecast issued in early September indicated below normal rainfall was expected. Early actions will be implemented before peak drought impacts occur during the January-March lean season. Implementation will focus on vulnerable households who will potentially be exposed to food insecurity, loss of livelihoods and reduced access to water. Priority will be given to households headed by women, older persons, persons with disabilities, child-headed households, smallholder farmers, and households dependent on rain-fed agriculture. Target geographical areas include drought-prone chiefdoms across the Lubombo and Shiselweni identified through EAP risk analysis, vulnerability assessments and drought monitoring systems.
2026-09-24 13:55:42