WFP appeals for more donations

The UN's World Food Programme (WFP) warned on Monday that food rations in Ethiopia are being cut because of a lack of supplies in the drought-stricken country. Families in desperate need of aid are seeing relief distributions drop as the country struggles to combat the food crisis that has hit an estimated 11 million people. “These people’s survival will hinge on food aid arriving not only quickly, but in sufficient quantities,” said Georgia Shaver, WFP head in Ethiopia. Nutritionists warn that reduced rations mean that already hungry people – and especially children – never escape from the insidious effects of malnutrition. WFP is appealing for a further US $205 million to tackle the crisis for a further year. It needs about 480,000 mt tons for 4.6 million people until March next year. “We are very grateful to donors for their positive response to Ethiopia’s drought appeal, which has saved the lives of thousands of people," Shaver said. “However, we have not seen the end of the crisis and more help over the months ahead will mean the difference between life and death."