irregular rain in West Africa

Climate Prayers - September 2010

The people of West Africa are poor and live by growing their own food. They are absolutely dependent on regular rain.

In 2009 there was drought, so crops were poor. This August the seasonal rainfall was unusually heavy which caused extensive flooding. Thousands of homes and farms were destroyed. Crops that had survived the drought were wiped out by floods.

The immediate result is hunger. There are also reports of cholera spread by contaminated water. Aid cannot reach those who need it as roads are washed away.

By 24 August in the Niger’s capital, Niamey, the Niger River rose to its highest level in 80 years. Other countries affected include Burkina Faso, Chad, Ivory Coast, Guinea, Sierra Leone and Cameroon.

Irregular and heavy rain is one of the expected consequences of climate change.

- Pray for those who have survived the drought and floods but who are left with nothing, that they will have daily bread.
- Pray we will recognise the hungry in Africa as our neighbours who Jesus told us to love.
- Pray the rich countries of the world will act to limit climate change.

For more information, go to http://www.climatestewards.net