Famine in Africa
Kara Murphy & Adry Munroe
Background Info
The Horn of Africa has long been prone to both drought and famine. An extreme drought, violent political conflict, and increasingly high food prices combined are what started the famine crisis in many African countries. This critical situation is worst in Eastern Africa and continues to spread adding yet another threat of survival.
Causes
Many things led to famine in Africa, such as poor management of resources, naturals disasters, overpopulated areas, low quality health facilities, and lack of proper aid from other countries.
Where does famine occur?
Famine is a major problem in many third world countries like Somalia, Ethiopia, Bangladesh, Djibouti, and Kenya.
The Statistics:
In 2005, approximately 10.1 million children died before their fifth birthday from malnutrition. 3/4 of these deaths occurred in Sub-Saharan Africa.
Every year, over 20 million babies are born at a low birth-weight due to hunger or malnutrition in the mother. These babies often die in their infant years, and those who don't often suffer lifelong physical and mental issues.
Around 30% of chhildren under the age of 5 are severely underweight.
The vast majority of people suffering from hunger live in developing countries. Most of the world's developing countries are located in Africa.
What Have We Done So Far?
Charities like Unicef and Oxfam have brought notice to this crisis, and many money and food donations have been made. There are also small school charities every year such as food drives that have supported this cause. Many celebrities have also recorded songs to help raise money for such charities.
What Else Needs To Be Done?
More people should participate in the charities and donate. Most people today rule out famine as a problem simply because it is not happening to them. More people need to become aware of how serious this crisis is and take action.
Our school, for example, conducted a food drive. The goal was set at 3,000 cans. Unfortunately, only 50 cans were donated. We need to raise awareness in our schools and communities and encourage people take part in charities like UNICEF.
Our school, for example, conducted a food drive. The goal was set at 3,000 cans. Unfortunately, only 50 cans were donated. We need to raise awareness in our schools and communities and encourage people take part in charities like UNICEF.