Whilst the papers focus on the downfall of the Murdoch empire, there are much bigger crises unfolding in the Horn of Africa. A major drought said to be the worst in 60 years is claiming the lives of innocent children every day. How did this come about and how can you help save the lives of Muslim children?
The Horn of Africa is its East-most tip and includes the countries of Somalia, Ethiopia and Eritrea. Just a short stretch of sea away from Saudi Arabia and the rest of the Arab world, it is prone to drought by virtue of its geography. In recent years this has been exacerbated by climate change, population growth and changes in agricultural practice. Previous year’s droughts have led to the perishing of up to 67% of cattle due to starvation. A lack of rain for 2 consecutive seasons has generated a humanitarian crisis with thousands of Somalians fleeing to neighbouring Ethiopia and refuge camps in Kenya. The Infant mortality rate is 7 in 10,000 with many dying en route. Refuge camps have been inundated beyond capacity and Measles is now spreading with risk of further infectious diseases.
UN humanitarian agencies have requested $1.6 billion to secure the crisis but have only reached half that amount. Ummah Welfare Trust and DEC are both charities collecting for this crisis. Please give generously – lives depend upon it.
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: "If you love the poor and bring them near you. . .God will bring you near Him on the Day of Resurrection." - Al-Tirmidhi, Hadith 1376
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