DROUGHT IN THE HORN OF AFRICA
Malteser International, the Order of Malta’s Worldwide Relief Organisation, has been very active in the Marsabit and Isiolo region of Northern Kenya since the worst of the food shortage and drought began in July of this year.
The first lorries left for the Marsabit region in July with 100 tonnes of general food (rice, oil and beans). This was followed in August with 130 tonnes of general food and then in early September a further 220 tonnes of general food. In addition 110 tonnes of Unimix (a nutrient rich porridge powder) was distributed to 10,700 people most severely at risk of starvation (children, lactating mothers and elderly people).
In order that those who needed it most used the Unimix we also provided additional food to the 42,800 people living in their households. Malteser International is also assisting in the Isiolo district of Northern Kenya by distributing food to 3,000 children and lactating mothers, as well as the 20,000 additional people living in their households. A German radio station has provided funding for this from September to December 2011.
One of the main challenges facing Malteser International is identifying those already receiving food from other aid agencies operating in the area, due to a constantly migrating population. To assist with this Malteser International have provided distribution cards that the beneficiaries must use each time they come for food, but this is not 100% water tight.