Food distribution - Ethiopia

Men unload sacks of food from the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies in Shanto in the Wolayita region in the South of Ethiopia.

The Red Cross Red Crescent is treating families of malnourished children as a priority and provides food relief to 40,000 people in southern Ethiopia.

Damot Pulasa and its neighbouring districts in the South of Ethiopia have been severely affected by unusual weather patterns in 2008. The previous year heavy rainfall destroyed crops. 2008 a drought has left people with empty bellies. Ato Mengistu Godana, vice-administrator of Damot Pulasa, says: “This district is usually known for producing surplus crops but this year we are facing an unprecedented drought. All 23 villages in the district are affected. Mothers and children suffer the most.” Photo: Jose Cendon/IFRC (p18265)

To find out more, go to www.ifrc.org.