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Mongolia is brutally experiencing a severe “Dzud” cold wave, a multiple natural disaster consisting of a summer drought resulting in inadequate pasture and production of hay, followed by very heavy winter snow, winds, and lower-than-normal temperatures.
This severe dzud disaster, which has not been observed since 2010, is affecting 119,598 households as of February 20. According to the Government of Mongolia, as of December 2023, 90% of the country is grappling with the Dzud’s effects, as thick layers of snow cover its territory, affecting communities, especially livestock loss, which are integral sources of food and livelihood of many families.
In response to this dire situation, Good Neighbors Mongolia has been closely monitoring to immediately respond to the needs of the affected communities in cooperation with UNICEF, UNFPA, and local authorities. These collaborative efforts will provide critical assistance and mitigate the adverse effects of the Dzud disaster.
Good Neighbors Mongolia started its distribution on March 18 to the province of Sukhbaatar, which is experiencing the highest livestock mortality rate and most severely impacted. This distribution will benefit 500 households with livestock fodder, dignity kits, and learning kits, alongside 20 households with food supplies in the Munkhkhaan, Tuvshinshiree, Khalzan, and Tumentsogts areas.
This disaster severely impacted various sectors, including the economy, and it may take them approximately three years to recover from this crisis. The impact has been excruciating to the communities, especially the herders, who are highly dependent on their livestock. For instance, one household they visited had 500 livestock, but due to the crisis, only 10 remained.
This alarming situation posed a lot of negative effects. Herders are unable to meet their loan obligations due to the loss of their livestock, face the risk of flash floods when the temperature rises, and dispose of deceased animals, which could lead to the spread of infectious diseases once spring arrives.
Good Neighbors is committed to standing by the affected communities and providing immediate relief and support for their recovery.
