One of the worst droughts in recent history is ravaging the Horn of Africa. Around 10 million people in Ethiopia and Somalia, including many women, children, and the elderly, are facing extinction as a result of severe food shortages. Switzerland is deeply concerned about the current drought in the region and has set aside CHF 10.8 million to assist those affected.
Droughts have hit the region three times in a row, causing severe water shortages. The risk of disease and severe malnutrition has increased dramatically as a result of the loss of livestock and crops. Thousands of families are fleeing their villages in search of food, water, and pastureland in desperate attempts to survive.
The drought’s effects are particularly severe for those who are most vulnerable. The drought raises the risk of gender-based violence, sexual exploitation and abuse, makes it difficult for children to get an education, and leads to malnutrition-related developmental disorders and diseases. Internally displaced people who have lost contact with their families or other social networks are even more vulnerable and in need of assistance. Because of the conflict in Ukraine, there is a risk that wheat and other staple foods will become more expensive, worsening the situation in Somalia and Ethiopia.
Rapid assistance to those in need
Switzerland is contributing CHF 10.8 million to World Food Programme and International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) programs in Somalia and Ethiopia to help people in need.
Swiss emergency reserves are also being replenished for ongoing development projects. This quick response enables these projects to lessen the effects of the drought on those who are affected.
In Ethiopia and Somalia, Switzerland also contributes to the UN’s country-based pooled funds, which support local humanitarian partner organizations. At low transaction costs, these organizations can provide timely, coordinated, and targeted assistance.
2022–25 Swiss Horn of Africa Cooperation Programme
The contribution of Switzerland is based on the Swiss Horn of Africa Cooperation Programme 2022–25. The current program, which has a budget of CHF 215 million for the next four years,
The FDFA (SDC and State Secretariat) and the FDJP are working together to implement the program (State Secretariat for Migration). Switzerland is involved in local, national, regional, and global efforts in the Horn of Africa to address issues such as governance, food security, civilian protection/migration, and health.