What is the current situation in West Africa?

World Vision's emergency food and nutrition programmes across West Africa have been ongoing
throughout the crisis, thanks to the support of New Zealanders. We have targeted over 1 million people dealing with food shortages, and have making real progress in many regions. Currently, our primary focus is on Mali:

Mali Emergency Update:

The ongoing food and nutrition crisis coupled with the recent conflict in Mali has resulted in over
260,000 people being displaced and left homeless within Mali. These families are struggling to survive and often have no more than the clothes on their back, and what they can carry. Their most important needs are access to food, shelter and water. The is also a big need for healthcare facilities and
schooling for affected children.

How is World Vision responding?

Mali: Since March 2012, World Vision has been very active in Mali with food, nutrition, resilience, and
water and sanitation projects. These have assisted hundreds of thousands of Malians through the food crisis. Currently a main focus is the large internally displaced population. Programmes include not only food, nutrition, shelter, water and sanitation, but also child protection, counselling support, and support for some families to return home where possible.

Our Child Sponsorship programmes in Mali continue to support ongoing community development to help families build resources and resilience for the future.

Niger: Food distribution, and supplementary feeding for malnourished children has been on-going. Our distribution of items such as cooking equipment, shelter and even simple items such as soap, help families to protect themselves and stop the spread of disease. In refugee camps, in addition to food and shelter, we have set up Child-Friendly spaces, where children can go to learn and play in a safe
environment.

Mauritania, Senegal and Chad: There has been extensive food distribution to vulnerable families, along with screening and treatment of severe and moderately malnourished children.

How can you get involved?

You can be part of the solution today. The situation in Mali right now is critical. Help families today by donating to the West Africa Food Relief appeal. We need your support today.

A brother’s sacrifice for his little sister

Eleven-year-old Salissou takes care of his youngest sister, Rashida, 2, who is malnourished.

Every day, 11-year-old Salissou goes to collect locusts for his sister to eat. They are the family's main food source now that the millet has run out. Salissou's sister, Rashida, 2, is malnourished and sick with fever. Salissou walks two-and-a-half hours every fortnight to take Rashida to the nearest World Vision health centre. "I carry my sister on my back. It's difficult and I get tired," says Salissou. At the centre, Rashida receives a life-saving peanut paste, called Plumpy'nut®. Salissou is scared because his father, Adamour, will have to leave soon to try and find work in the city, so he can buy food. Adamour says he can't stay home without doing something. "I love my children; their life is my life ... I have to go to get something for them to eat," he says.

 

World Vision is appealing for funds to help the children of West Africa

See what life is like for families at the Mangezi refugee camp, Niger

"Last year was particularly difficult for children in Mali, and this ongoing conflict threatens them further. They are especially vulnerable. Their needs must be prioritised." Chance Briggs, Head of World Vision Mali