Over 420,000 Children Affected by Water Scarcity in Amazon Region
More than 420,000 children are currently facing dangerous levels of water scarcity and drought conditions across Brazil, Colombia, and Peru, according to UNICEF estimates released on Thursday, November 7.
The ongoing record-breaking drought, which began last year, has led to historically low river levels in the Amazon basin, severely impacting riverside and indigenous communities.
Families in these regions rely on rivers for food, water, fuel, medical supplies, and transportation to schools. Essential services, including health, education, and child protection, have been disrupted, putting lives at risk. UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell emphasized the urgent need to address the extreme climate crisis affecting the Amazon, stating that the health of the ecosystem directly impacts the well-being of children.
In Brazil, over 1,700 schools and 760 health centers have become inaccessible due to low water levels, with many children out of school. In Colombia, river levels have dropped by up to 80%, restricting access to drinking water and food, while in Peru, drought conditions have left remote indigenous communities vulnerable. UNICEF estimates that $10 million is needed to address urgent needs, including water distribution and health services.
