Meeting the health needs of children

Thursday, July 6, 2017

Photos and captions by Mark Nonkes: Interim Communication Manager, East Africa Hunger Crisis

The humanitarian situation in Somalia continues to deteriorate with an estimated 4 million children in urgent need of assistance (UNICEF, June 2017). A recent assessment from FSNAU-FEWSNET indicates an elevated risk of famine due to a combination of severe food insecurity, high acute malnutrition and high disease burden (FSNAU/ FEWS NET, 29th May 2017).

Acute malnutrition levels remain critical, particularly among the rural pastoralist population as well as Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs).

World Vision has assisted 380,596 people in drought-affected areas of Somaliland, Puntland, Jubaland and South West State since January 2017. In view of the deteriorating situation, more assistance is still needed to match the increased needs. 

World Food Programme, has provided 16,612 children and 5,684 mothers with ready use supplementary foods and a monthly rations of nutrition paks full of protein, vitamins, and essential minerlas to help malnourished children gain weight and become healthy.