Climate change, flooding drive cholera and multiple disease outbreaks across Africa – WHO

23 January 2026, 3:32 pm

Byamukama Alozious

The World Health Organization (WHO) African Region has warned that climate change, flooding, and population displacement are accelerating the spread of cholera and other deadly diseases across parts of Africa, particularly in Southern Africa.

Speaking during a monthly WHO Africa media dialogue, Dr Abdourahmane Diallo, Director of Programme Management at WHO Africa, said climate-related shocks have become one of the leading drivers of public health emergencies on the continent.

Dr Diallo explained that recurrent flooding has contaminated water sources, disrupted sanitation systems, and forced communities into overcrowded settlements, creating ideal conditions for the spread of cholera and other water-borne diseases.

“Cholera is closely linked to unsafe water and poor sanitation. Climate change is worsening these risks through flooding and displacement. Preparedness saves lives, and sustainable, integrated responses are essential to protect communities,” Dr Diallo said.

Countries such as Mozambique and South Africa continue to report increased health needs following floods, with many communities lacking access to safe drinking water, sanitation facilities, and emergency medical care. WHO says contamination of water sources remains a major concern and is fueling outbreaks in affected areas.

Dr Marie Roseline Belizaire, WHO Africa Regional Emergency Director, said the current health emergencies are disproportionately affecting children, women, and the elderly, especially in displaced and hard-to-reach communities.

She noted that WHO is working closely with ministries of health, regional governments, and partners to support cholera response efforts through technical assistance, emergency medical care, mental health and psychosocial support, immunization, and strengthened community engagement.

“We are supporting countries to work with local authorities and communities to ensure people know when and where to seek treatment. Timely care and accurate information save lives,” Dr Belizaire said.

WHO reports that Africa is facing multiple overlapping disease outbreaks. In 2025 alone, the region recorded more than 100 public health emergencies and 12 major humanitarian crises, including four hemorrhagic fever outbreaks. Cholera remains prevalent in several countries, while mpox has recorded over 25,000 cases and deaths, though transmission has slowed and only 16 countries are still reporting new cases.

Ethiopia has not reported any new Marburg cases as of the latest update. Other ongoing threats include diphtheria and Rift Valley fever and the situation is further worsened by humanitarian crises such as the conflict in Sudan, where more than four million people have been displaced, increasing vulnerability to disease outbreaks and Congo internal conflicts

WHO said it is working with partners including the Africa CDC to strengthen laboratory networks, improve surveillance, and enhance community communication to reduce stigma and ensure outbreaks are detected early.

WHO reaffirmed its commitment to working with governments and communities across Africa to improve access to safe water and sanitation, strengthen health services, and build resilience against climate-related health emergencies