Food Crisis Hits Horn of Africa

In 2011, the most severe drought in 60 years hit the Horn of Africa and ignited a food crisis across the region that contributed to violent conflict and put the lives of more than 12.5 million people at risk. 

Persistent droughts destroyed crops across the region. Without food and water, animals became sick and many did not survive. This was especially concerning because most people are pastoralists who earn a living by selling the food and milk of their livestock or who rely on livestock to feed themselves.

With few alternatives, families needed to walk countless miles in search of water and food to fill their empty stomachs.  And a life of constant upheaval often pushed children to drop out of school for extended periods — many never returned. 

When you generously donated to Mercy Corps' Food Crisis Hits Horn of Africa project on GlobalGiving you helped us ramp up our relief and recovery efforts to reach hundreds of thousands of people. You saved lives and helped people gain the tools to transform their lives. You’ve made a real difference. 

Taiko, a mother from Ethiopia, worried about how she was going to feed her family and couldn't afford to keep her kids in school. Because of you, Taiko is able to take care of her family. And you helped give her children a chance to complete their education on scholarship. Taiko and her family are so thankful for your support.  

Together, we:

• Treated malnourished children and provided health care to families.
• Promoted peace by helping communities resolve disputes.
• Helped farmers adapt to climate issues and protect their crops and livestock.
• Provided vocational training and job opportunities so people could support their families.
• Increased education, economic and civic participation opportunities for youth.

Mercy Corps continues to meet the needs of millions of people in Somalia, Ethiopia and Kenya to ensure they thrive. However, we are retiring this project on GlobalGiving because we have received sufficient funds to implement the programs our team aims to achieve in the coming months. To learn about our current work in this region please visit the country pages our website: Somalia, Ethiopia and Kenya. 

To continue saving and improving lives in the world's toughest places, please consider supporting our Help Mercy Corps Turn Crisis into Opportunity project on GlobalGiving. Thank you! 

Links:

• Join Mercy Corps' work in Ethiopia
• You can help families in Kenya
• Learn how you can join Mercy Corps' work in Somalia