Famine Looms in Horn of Africa Due to Decades-Long Drought and Ongoing Global Crises

Millions of people in the Horn of Africa face an unprecedented threat of famine as the worst drought in 40 years exacerbates the devastating effects of climate change, the Covid-19 pandemic, and the ongoing war in Ukraine. The dire situation has led to extreme hunger, failed harvests, livestock deaths, and water shortages, leaving livelihoods in shambles. In Ethiopia, Kenya, and Somalia, 18.6 million people are struggling with acute food insecurity, with 6.5 million children projected to suffer from acute malnutrition.

Key Takeaways:

• 19.2 million people are affected by the drought in the Horn of Africa, with 18.6 million facing acute food insecurity.
• 3.32 million children are at risk of dropping out of school due to the drought.
• 1.8 million children in Kenya, Somalia, and Ethiopia are experiencing severe wasting.
• 7 million livestock have died, and 22 million are at risk.
• The situation in Somalia is of utmost concern, with the risk of famine increasing if seasonal harvests fail, market prices continue to rise, and the humanitarian response is inadequate.
• 6.5 million children will suffer from acute malnutrition if aid is not provided promptly.

Statistics:

• 19.2 million people affected by the drought in the Horn of Africa (inclusive of 18.6 million facing acute food insecurity).
• 3.32 million children at risk of dropping out of school.
• 18.6 million people facing acute food insecurity in Ethiopia, Kenya, and Somalia.
• 6.5 million children projected to suffer from acute malnutrition.
• 1.8 million children experiencing severe wasting in Kenya, Somalia, and Ethiopia.
• 7 million livestock deaths.
• 22 million livestock at risk.

Sources:

• Seventh-day Adventist Church.
• ADRA-UK.
• World Food Programme.