Why?
The ongoing rainy season in the Far-North Region resulted in a break of the bank of the Logone river in the Far-North
Region, which separates Cameroon and the Republic of Chad (See map of affected areas in Annex 1). The heavy
downpour on 4 October 2019 resulted in rising water levels and inundated the neighbouring communities. Authorities
registered up to a 30m rise in water level between end of September and 4 October 2019, which caused serious
flooding in the Maga Sub-Division, affecting the following communities: Nohoye, Pinfoung, Koundouma, Guiding,
Sarahara, Lahai, Guirvidig, Dawaya, Gounmi and Mourna. Due to lack of shelter, the inhabitants of these villages sought refuge on dikes. Currently their basic food sources are
the fish from the inundated river and other animals that were caught by the flood. River water is the population’s unique
source of water, used to meet their day to day domestic needs (cooking, dishwashing, bathing, etc.). While, water
points, which are flooded as well, are still frequented by some families. There are no toilets and the population closest
to the river will decline evacuating the dikes. Faeces could be found in the immediate surroundings as well. There is a
risk that drinking water sources could be contaminated with floodwaters, which have higher levels of bacteria.
Contaminated floodwaters increase the risk of waterborne diseases, such as cholera. Already a number of cholera
cases have been identified in the communities of Karhay, Gane, Zouwaye, Datchek, Yagoua, Zebe (located in the
Yagou sub-division)1 therefore raising the possibility of an epidemic outbreak.
As the river has overflowed, there is a risk that agricultural activities and livelihoods may be impacted in Far North,
where over 70% of the population living in this area are farmers. The effects on agriculture may further exacerbate
food insecurity in the region. Communities living along the Logone river are reluctant to be relocated to safer areas. Cameroon
What?
Shelter, Health and WASH.
Who?
2303 people