The threat of famine in Ethiopia

By Winnifred Mailu, Head of Thematic Support and Capacity Building, Ripple Effect

I’m currently very concerned about the famine threat in east Africa where we work, especially in parts of Ethiopia and Kenya. Using the Famine Early Warning System (FEWS), we can see that there is already a hunger emergency unfolding in front of us. Although famine has not been officially declared yet, it is predicted to occur in 2023 if we don't act now. Famine happens slowly, with climate shocks like drought, poverty and conflict, all contributing.

Right now, Ethiopia is facing the worst drought in 40 years as a result of the climate crisis. The drought situation has led to water scarcity, crop failure, livestock deaths and soaring staple food prices. Recent conflict, the ongoing effects of Covid-19 and increased cost-of-living, are also having a devastating impact on families abilities to grow or access enough food.

This year is forecasted to have once again lower than expected rainfall, for the sixth consecutive time and this will have a huge impact on millions of people. Although there has been rainfall in some regions of Ethiopia this year, the farming families we work alongside are nervous that their crops won’t survive if there isn’t enough rain to nourish the soil.

Famine is where there is a widespread scarcity of food, which leads to malnutrition and starvation, causing many people to die of hunger every single day.

The work we do at Ripple Effect is vital in supporting the communities that are most affected by the climate crisis and other challenges. We work closely with farming families so that they can learn the skills and knowledge to build their resilience and fight the threat of famine.

Farmers learn how to plant and grow a diverse range of crops which can earn them an income as well as mitigating against the risk of famine. Improved techniques for drying and storing food, ensure that what little these families have goes as far as it can. Families we work alongside learn to build keyhole or bag gardens, to encourage good soil and grow even in challenging conditions. These gardens are ideal for farmers with limited resources and can provide fruit and vegetables even when water is scarce.

With our proven ripple effect of positive change, we know that for each family we work with at least three more families will benefit through knowledge and skills passed on within communities.

With you by our side, we'll continue to support farming families with essential training. Find out how you can support families fighting the threat of famine by growing crops like enset, also known as the 'tree against hunger' here.