The government of Mali has declared a state of national disaster following devastating floods that have claimed the lives of 30 people and displaced over 47,000 others since the beginning of the rainy season.
The floods, which are a common occurrence in the West and Central Africa region during this time of year, have been particularly severe this season.
Heavy rains sweeping through the Sahel belt have affected over 716,000 people across the region, according to the United Nations Office for Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA).
The Malian government is now facing the challenge of providing relief to the thousands of affected individuals and families.
The declaration of a national disaster will allow the authorities to mobilize resources and coordinate efforts to address the emergency.