Millions of people in Malawi are facing dire existential crises due to climate breakdown, with extreme weather events causing devastating impacts on communities. Cyclone Freddy killed more than 600 people in March 2023, while a severe drought declared a national disaster by President Lazarus McCarthy Chakwera has left millions facing acute food insecurity. Diseases such as cholera and malaria are on the rise, further straining health systems.
Despite these challenges, efforts are being made to strengthen health systems and address climate-sensitive diseases. Investments in health workers, infrastructure, and digitization of health records are being prioritized to improve response capabilities. However, more support is needed from wealthy nations to mitigate the impacts of climate change on vulnerable populations.
The importance of addressing the climate-health nexus is gaining recognition globally, with initiatives such as Health Day at Cop28 and the focus on health during Climate Week at the UN General Assembly. It is crucial for countries to move from discussions to actions, with increased financing to build climate-resilient systems and protect the most vulnerable.
Overall, collaboration is essential to mitigate the impacts of climate change on health and ensure a more equitable world for all. By working together and acting on existing knowledge, it is possible to avert the worst consequences of the climate crisis and support those most affected.
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