Southern and Eastern Africa

The Southern and Eastern Africa region is home to the world’s largest humanitarian crisis, with nearly 57 million people requiring assistance, representing more than a quarter of global needs. Sudan alone accounts for a significant share and remains the world’s largest humanitarian and displacement crisis, with ongoing conflict driving massive internal displacement and forcing millions to seek refuge in neighbouring countries. Across the region, humanitarian needs are driven by the combined impacts of climate extremes, protracted conflict and economic fragility, with violence continuing to trigger large‑scale displacement.

Instability also persists in South Sudan and parts of Ethiopia, while the conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo continues to spill across borders, increasing refugee arrivals in neighbouring countries. In Mozambique’s Cabo Delgado Province, ongoing violence continues to force people from their homes. These crises are unfolding in an increasingly constrained operational environment, as humanitarian access becomes more limited.

Climate shocks and disease outbreaks are further compounding vulnerabilities. Multiple countries are grappling with the effects of drought, flooding and cyclones, which have disrupted livelihoods, reduced agricultural production and deepened food insecurity. At the same time, outbreaks of cholera, malaria, mpox and measles are placing additional pressure on already fragile health systems. Major funding shortfalls are further constraining the humanitarian response, forcing organizations to scale back operations and prioritize only the most urgent needs.

OCHA’s Regional Office for Southern and Eastern Africa (ROSEA), based in Nairobi, works closely with country offices and Humanitarian Advisory Teams to support humanitarian coordination and strengthen preparedness across the region. ROSEA leads cross‑border analysis, supports multi‑country preparedness and planning processes, and enhances collaboration with regional bodies, including the Intergovernmental Authority on Development and the Southern African Development Community, to improve emergency preparedness and response.