Famine easing in Somalia
World Vision is welcoming news conditions have improved in three parts of Somalia previously affected by famine.
22/11/2011 / PRESS RELEASE
The United Nations has officially downgraded the situation in
Bakool, lower Shabelle and Bay. At its worst, malnutrition was
affecting 53% of the population in the latter. That figure has
since fallen below the famine threshold of 30%.
World Vision's Humanitarian and Emergency Affairs Manager Ian
McInnes says aid agencies have been making headway tackling the
famine, despite the conflict in Somalia hampering efforts. "While
there is a huge amount still to be done, World Vision has reached
approximately half a million people so far, delivering food aid,
water, sanitation, health-care and livelihood support".
However, McInnes warns three other areas are still experiencing
famine and at least a quarter of a million people face imminent
starvation.
A three year drought is affecting much of East Africa, but
nowhere outside Somalia has reached famine status.
Meanwhile, another food crisis appears to be brewing in West
Africa. Food security in Mali and Niger has plummeted following an
appalling crop season exacerbated by climate change.
"It's probably the last thing people want to hear, but parts of
West Africa are rapidly deteriorating now, even as the Horn of
Africa improves" says McInnes.
New initiatives to link crop research, ground water extraction
and simple improved agricultural practices are aimed at dealing
with some of the root causes of hunger in Mali and Niger but the
region still ultimately needs rain.
West Africa will be the focus of World Vision's 40 Hour Famine
campaign next year.
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