Sahel Region Grapples with Severe Water Shortages and Extreme Heat

The Sahel region of West and North-Central Africa is facing a dire situation as residents struggle with severe water shortages and extreme temperatures. In Chad's capital N'Djamena and Mali's capital Bamako, the effects of the worst heatwave in recent memory are being felt acutely, exposing the struggle of junta-led countries to provide basic services to their citizens.

Why this matters: The water and electricity shortages in the Sahel region have far-reaching implications for the health and well-being of its citizens, and the inability of governments to address these issues can lead to widespread instability and humanitarian crises. The water and electricity shortages in the Sahel region have far-reaching implications for the health and well-being of its citizens, and the inability of governments to address these issues can lead to widespread instability and humanitarian crises. In addition, the region's vulnerability to climate change highlights the need for international cooperation and sustainable development efforts to mitigate its effects.

In N'Djamena, housewife Sylvie Belrangar's experience highlights the water shortage crisis. When she turned on a tap, no water came out. Belrangar criticized the government, saying, "The president promised water and electricity. But since then, we've seen nothing." Chad's presidential vote on Monday is expected to cement Mahamat Idriss Deby's grip on power, but critics argue that the poll is merely a facade to legitimize Deby's rule and will not reflect the wishes of voters.

Meanwhile, in Bamako, ice vendor Bintou Traore faces challenges keeping her ice stock from melting because of the extreme heat. Prices have increased at the factory due to the use of generators. Traore stated,"Ice is very expensive now. "Mali's military seized power in a 2020 coup, leading to a rise inelectricity outages. The authorities have delayed a promised transition to democracy and are limiting political activities under the guise of maintaining public order.

The April heatwave has had deadly consequences, with a surge in excess deaths reported at Bamako's Gabriel Toure Hospital. Climate scientists estimate that there are likely thousands of other victims across the region. Maintaining a reliable power supply is essential to mitigating the effects of extreme heat. Political analyst Koureissi Cisse warned,"People outside are having seizures and strokes. People are dying... because of the heat, but also lack of electricity."

Theelectricity outageshave eroded public support for the junta in Mali, particularly during heatwaves. Opposition figures have pointed to the power cuts as an example of the junta's poor governance. The situation in the Sahel region highlights the urgent need for improved infrastructure and governance to address the challenges posed by climate change and ensure access to basic services for the population.

The Sahel region continues to face extreme weather conditions, and the governments of Chad and Mali face growing demands from their citizens for reliable water and electricity supplies. The international community also has a role to play in supporting sustainable development andclimate resilience effortsin the Sahel to prevent further loss of life and ensure a more stable future for the region.

Key Takeaways

• Severe water shortages and heatwaves affect Chad and Mali, exposing governance issues.
• Water and electricity shortages threaten citizens' health and well-being, leading to instability.
• Climate change vulnerability in the Sahel region requires international cooperation and sustainable development.
• Junta-led governments in Chad and Mali face growing citizen demands for basic services.
• Improved infrastructure and governance are urgently needed to address climate change challenges.