WITH TENS OF MILLIONS OF PEOPLE already plunged into extreme poverty by the COVID-19 pandemic, armed conflicts, climate shocks and economic turmoil, community resilience is already desperately low.
The UN warns that food price hikes sparked by the Ukraine war, are worsening the situation. Latest figures show that 9.4 million Ethiopians, 7.7 million South Sudanese and 3.5 million Kenyans are facing acute hunger, the vast majority in rural areas. Scarce media coverage means this crisis is escalating almost unnoticed.
IIRR remains committed to long term systemic change in food security, sustainable livelihoods, health, gender equality and environmental resilience. But for now, we must focus on delivering urgent and direct aid.
At the International Institute of Rural Reconstruction, we have worked with rural communities in Ethiopia, Kenya and South Sudan for decades. We know how resilient, determined and brave they are. We also know that they are bearing the full force of the current food emergency. With over 61 years of expertise and network building in the key areas affected by this crisis, we are working with partners in the field to develop the most effective channels to reach those most in need.
