Y Care International launches appeal for Southern Africa food crisis

26 July 2002

Y Care International has launched an emergency appeal for people affected by the deepening food crisis which has gripped much of Southern Africa.

Close to 13 million people are now on the brink of starvation.

“This is a desperately bleak situation, and it is likely to get far worse, unless there is a substantial and effective relief effort,” said Sean Brown, co-ordinator of Y Care International’s Africa programmes.

Political turmoil, civil war and unrest, the devastating effects of HIV/AIDS, and heavy rains, which came too soon and were followed by drought, have all contributed to the current crisis.

Initially, Y Care International will work through ACT International, which has several partner organisations in the worst affected regions. Money raised will go on immediate food assistance and relief to those in most need.