Spain doubles aid for UN food operation in Horn of Africa

The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) received a boost today for its emergency relief efforts feeding millions of hungry people in the Horn of Africa, with the announcement of a $112 million donation from Spain.

“This extraordinary contribution brings hope and help to the 20 million most vulnerable people that we are committed to assisting in the Horn of Africa,” said WFP Executive Director Josette Sheeran.

WFP has scaled up aid efforts to people living in Kenya, Ethiopia and Somalia who have been struck hard by prolonged drought, recurring conflict, stubborn high food prices and the global financial crisis.

In September the agency launched an emergency appeal for almost $1 billion over the next six months, to provide millions of people throughout the region with food assistance.

“Spain has been a model partner for WFP in spearheading both the response to high food prices and now, in taking the lead on our critical appeal for the Horn of Africa,” said Ms. Sheeran.

Having already contributed over $107 million to WFP this year, the latest donation from the Spanish Government practically doubles its contribution and puts it on the agency’s list of top 10 donor nations.