Islamic Relief pledges over $18m at Horn of Africa conference in New York
GOOBJOOG NEWS | NEW YORK: The Islamic Relief has called on global leaders to step up their “shameful” response to the hunger crisis in the Horn of Africa.
The humanitarian organization’s Chief Executive Officer Wasmeem Ahmad who spoke as global leaders converge in New York USA for the Horn of Africa High Level Pledging Conference said it is unfortunate that the global community continues to turn a blind eye to the suffering of people in the region.
“People in the region are incredibly resilient but nobody can cope with five consecutive failed rainy seasons and the destruction of their entire livelihoods. People here contribute the least to climate change but they are suffering its worst consequences,” he said.
He added, “As global leaders meet in New York, families in Somalia are making impossible choices about which child gets to eat today. People’s lives are at stake at this conference.”
The CEO pointed out that aid has made a big difference in the region, particularly in Somalia which could have otherwise fall into famine. He however said the much needed aid often comes too late and that funding has decreased leaving vulnerable people exposed to the threat famine.
“More long-term investment is needed in people’s livelihoods. Even if this year’s rains are good, it will take several years for farmers and pastoralists to replenish their crops and herds and rebuild their livelihoods. The quicker that funds reach the ground the more effective they will be.”
He announced that the during this year’s conference, the Islamic Relief is pledging £15 million ($18.6m) – more than some of the world’s richest governments have committed so far.
Highest-Polluting
Many of the highest-polluting and richest nations, he added have failed to deliver adequate funds for the crisis at the Horn of Africa, which is largely attributed to climate change.
“Somalia, Ethiopia and Kenya produce just 0.1% of global carbon emissions, yet citizens of these countries are paying the highest price of climate change with the region suffering from the longest drought on record, which has wiped out crops and livestock and plunged millions of people into desperate hunger,” he pointed out.
The Islamic Relief is calling on donors to make multi-year and flexible commitments so that humanitarian agencies can plan for long-term support and effectively adapt to the evolving situation.
“Pledges should be dispersed quickly rather than waiting until the end of the year, in order to maximize impact.”
- By Fauxile Kibet