Coping with drought in Ethiopia's Somali region
Published on 13 April 2011
Copyright: WFP/Susannah Nicol
In the south eastern part of Ethiopia, bordering the country of Somalia, lies Ethiopia's Somali region which is home to over 4 million people.
Ethiopia/Somali Region Drought 1
Copyright: WFP/Susannah Nicol
Most are pastoralist though some also grow a small amount of crops.
Ethiopia/Somali Region Drought 2
Copyright: WFP/Susannah Nicol
Traditionally this area is dry and relies heavily on seasonal rains.
Ethiopia/Somali Region Drought 3
Copyright: WFP/Susannah Nicol
But the lack of these rains at the end of 2010 has resulted in drought.
Ethiopia/Somali Region Drought 4
Copyright: WFP/Susannah Nicol
There is extra pressure on existing water supplies as many inhabitants have been forced to seek out water holes for household needs...
Ethiopia/Somali Region Drought 5
Copyright: WFP/Susannah Nicol
...as well as for their livestock.
Ethiopia/Somali Region Drought 6
Copyright: WFP/Susannah Nicol
For some the water source is a trek of six hours - and then six hours back.
Ethiopia/Somali Region Drought 7
Copyright: WFP/Susannah Nicol
And due to the limited amount that can be carried, this journey is made every other day.
Ethiopia/Somali Region Drought 8
Copyright: WFP/Susannah Nicol
The few crops grown have failed and with livestock weakening, more than a million people in this region will require food assistance to get them through the coming months.
Ethiopia/Somali Region Drought 9
Copyright: WFP/Susannah Nicol
With the help of donations from KWF in Germany, WFP has been able to reach quickly to this emergency situation.
Ethiopia/Somali Region Drought 10
Copyright: WFP/Susannah Nicol
By working together with the local government and residents, WFP ensures that the most needy communities are targeted.
Ethiopia/Somali Region Drought 11
Copyright: WFP/Susannah Nicol
And within those communities the food is received by the most vulnerable, such as the elderly...
Ethiopia/Somali Region Drought 12
Copyright: WFP/Susannah Nicol
...and the young.
Ethiopia/Somali Region Drought 13
Copyright: WFP/Susannah Nicol
The food received through WFP has made a vital difference to so many people's lives.
Ethiopia/Somali Region Drought 14
