What is the current food situation in
East Africa?
In drought- and hunger-ravaged East Africa, World Vision's
life-saving assistance, as well as the early start to the rainy
season, has begun to pay off. In Kenya, Ethiopia, Tanzania and
Somalia, the total number of people affected by food shortages has
dropped from 13.5 million to between three and four million. In
Somalia, where the first official famine of the 21st century was
declared, famine no longer exists in three of the worst-affected
areas.
But, says the United Nations (UN), the situation in Somalia
still remains the most critical in the world, and a quarter of a
million people across East Africa still face possible starvation.
World Vision will continue its life-saving programmes in East
Africa as long as they are needed.
Issues faced: Famine, food shortages, acute
malnutrition, drought, crop and livestock losses, rising food
prices, refugees.
Focus countries: Kenya, Ethiopia, Somalia,
Djibouti, and parts of Uganda and Tanzania.
How is World Vision responding?
With the support of generous Kiwis, World Vision has reached
more than 2.2 million people with food, healthcare, nutritional
support, water and sanitation, child protection, shelter, hygiene
kits and mosquito nets. We have been working within communities, as
well as refugee camps. A large part of our work has been aimed at
under-5 children, and breastfeeding and pregnant women.
The relief effort in East Africa has been a huge undertaking,
but World Vision is saving lives today with your help. We continue
working alongside governments and other agencies to support the
children and families in East Africa.
How is World Vision helping to reduce food shortages in the
long term?
In addition to supporting people with emergency food, water and
health supplies, it's important we look long-term to help
communities cope in future. Part of our programming includes
long-term agricultural and livelihood support, as well as
veterinary assistance and supplementary animal feed. These are
vital to helping families and communities become more resilient,
and build their resources for the future.
How can you get involved?
The crisis in East Africa is improving, but there is still much
work to do to protect children and their families. You can still make a
donation today to help save lives and give hope in East Africa.
Or if you would like to help us prepare for future disasters, you
can donate to our Children in
Crisis Emergency Fund.