International response “inadequate”

Eritrean Relief Commissioner Worku Tesfamikael said the international response to the humanitarian needs in Eritrea had been inadequate and “barely covers one third of the needs in the country”, reported the pro-government Visafric web site. She called on the international community to respond “urgently” to the “growing crisis”. Commending the efforts of national and international agencies based in Eritrea, she said cooperation was good but “needs in Eritrea are beyond the capacity of the team who are actively working in Eritrea”. According to the interview posted on the Visafric site, Worku Tesfamikael said a separate appeal for drought-affected populations had received even less response from the international community, and Eritrea had only one month’s supply of food left for those needing humanitarian assistance.