December
An intensifying drought in the Horn of Africa sparks fears of a severe food crisis. Continued poor rainfall throughout 2021 has led to crop failures and now 13 million people do not know where their next meal is coming from. The situation is deteriorating in eastern Kenya, southern Ethiopia and Somalia, where food and water are extremely scarce. Pastoralists are seeing their livestock dying in large numbers, while farmers struggle to grow crops.
Islamic Relief is ramping up support for those affected by the drought. In Kenya we provide cash transfers to enable families to buy food. We also distribute water tanks to communities in need. In Ethiopia we work to combat high rates of malnutrition with food packs. In Somalia we provide families with clean water by helping to repair boreholes and distributing water purification tablets.
DISASTER
Super Typhoon Rai, locally known as Odette, batters the Philippines. It is the strongest storm to hit the island nation this year, with winds of up to 121 miles per hour.
IMPACT
Hundreds of thousands of people are forced to flee as torrential rains, landslides and storm surges destroy homes and infrastructure. There is a shortage of drinking water in affected areas, and communications and road networks across the country suffer severe disruptions. More than 400 people are killed and over 1,200 injured.
RESPONSE
Islamic Relief teams work around the clock to reach hard-hit, vulnerable communities. We distribute food and drinking water, as well as soap and other hygiene essentials to help protect displaced people from Covid-19.
