Christian Groups Highlight Severe Malnutrition Risk in Ethiopia
From 8 to 10 million Ethiopians are at risk of malnutrition due to severe drought, delays in implementing support programs, and a lack of resources, according to Church and Christian aid groups in the region.
About 8 to 10 million Ethiopians are at risk of malnutrition due to severe drought, delays in implementing support programs, and a lack of resources, according to church and Christian aid groups in the region.
Three factors have contributed to the crisis. Firstly, the short, rainy season from February to late April, known as "belg" did not come this year, meaning crop failures for staple foods. Secondly, a program designed to overcome dependence on food assistance has been delayed. Thirdly, food pledges have come up short.
Combined, these events are contributing to deteriorating health for Ethiopians across the country.
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Unless food and non-food items come quickly, the groups will not be able to transport supplies to severely affected areas prior to the June rainy season, when poor roads could cause delays that cost lives, according to a statement released by Action by Churches together, a global alliance of Churches and church related organizations working to provide aid for emergencies worldwide.
Groups raising awareness of this situation include Orthodox, Evangelical and Lutheran Church organizations, along with international Christian aid groups. Organized under the ACT Ethiopia Forum, they are working to help supply food that will supplement other government and international aid efforts.
In many parts of the country, children are showing very high and even deadly levels of malnutrition. A UNICEF report released on May 4 states that without treatment, from 80 to 170 thousand children may die this year. An additional 360 thousand moderately malnourished children could plunge into severe malnourishment if not treated. In addition, a scarce water supply and high cereal prices make the situation even more pressing.
Although rain in April and early May fell in the Somali region in the west, resulting in growth for livestock pasture and water supplies, these were offset by the deaths of 100 people and as many cattle in subsequent floods. The ACT report states that thousands of families were also displaced.
Another factor contributing to the crisis is the delayed implementation of the Ethiopian government
