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NEWS > Horn of Africa food crisis > Horn of Africa food crisis - Questions and Answers

Horn of Africa food crisis - Questions and Answers

  • Why is cbm responding to a food and famine crisis?
The recently released UN World Report on Disability informed us that 15% of the world’s population live with a disability....and we know that where there is extreme poverty there is always disability. That’s why it’s so important that CBM is there ready to assist and partner with local people to work alongside those with disabilities during this East Africa Crisis.

  • What is the Horn of Africa?
The Horn of Africa covers the region containing the countries of Eritrea, Djibouti, Ethiopia and Somalia. It covers approximately 2,000,000 km² and is inhabited by about roughly 100 million people (Ethiopia: 85 million, Somalia: 9.3 million, Eritrea: 5.2 million, and Djibouti: 0.86 million).

  • What is the difference between a drought and famine?
Drought results in shortfall in agricultural production and may cause food shortages. However, due to reduced income of the poorer sections of the society and if timely help is not available from the community or government, the situation can lead to famine.
Famines are caused by either or both of the following reasons:
a) decline in the availability of food
b) reduction in people's access to, or their ability to acquire food.

  • Why are people with disabilities among the most vulnerable?
When emergencies or crisis hits, it is often people with disabilities who are first to be impacted and last to be helped. This is usually due to the lack of access to services that may be available. Basic supplies such as food and water become difficult to reach in such times.

  • Why are we working with partners like Kenyan Red Cross?
It is important that we look at long term solutions, especially in times of emergency. CBM is committed to the long term support of people with disabilities all over the world, and by working with local partners – people who know the local language, culture and resources – we can better serve and work alongside people with disabilities. It also means that overall we can be much more efficient in the work we do as there is little need to replicate many activities.

  • What can I do to help?
You can make a difference by donating to cbm.

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