Salvation Army leaders grow concerned over potential famine in Africa

Predictions of famine are making Salvation Army leaders in Africa increasingly concerned for needy families in the region. Food shortages are already being experienced in many places and weather forecasters are predicting continuing drought in some areas and for worsening floods in others. Either situation is likely to lead to famine and the potential for devastating loss of life.

Kenya has been experiencing a drought for some time and meteorologists are predicting that the seasonal rains hoped for in March will not be nearly enough to counter the damage caused by two consecutive failed rainy seasons. Climate scientist Peter Omeny predicts that dry conditions may well be 'prolonged' in the eastern part of the Horn of Africa.

In Malawi and Mozambique the situation is reversed. Flood waters have destroyed tens of thousands of acres of recently-planted crops and made the delivery of relief rations difficult. Families have been displaced and there is an increasing lack of food and clean water for drinking. In Malawi The Salvation Army has been using local funding to provide limited food distributions to some of the neediest families. Even though this has been helpful, the growing need is threatening to overwhelm limited local resources.

Salvation Army leaders in Africa have opened discussions with groups such as the United Nation’s World Food Programme in order to secure food but fears continue to grow that – if predictions come true – more help will be needed. The international Salvation Army will continue to monitor the situation and requests prayers for the people of Africa.

Donations to the Africa Disaster Fund can be made online.