The project region Eli Daar in Afar is affected by one of the worst desert locust invasions of the last 25 years. More and more people are losing their livelihoods and suffering from hunger. The swarms of locusts not only lead to crop losses, but also to the destruction of large areas of pasture land. Together with our partners, we are helping to alleviate the effects of the drought and to establish food security for those affected.
The speed with which the locusts spread and the size of the affected areas exceed the capacity of the authorities to control the swarms. In addition to the locusts, the population is already suffering from conflict-related displacements and droughts of recent years.
Catherine Mwangi, Director of our partner organization APDA in Kenya reported: "The locust invasion in our project area has a negative impact on the community's grazing land. The swarms have destroyed grazing land, which will severely reduce livestock productivity and thus lead to high food insecurity in many households. It is estimated that the first locust invasion in spring 2020 destroyed over 30% of the pasture land".
Another problem is the restrictions imposed by measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Transport and travel options have been restricted, fares have doubled, market days have been shortened and animal marketing to Djibouti has been suspended. This further complicates the economic situation of the Afar. On the other hand, food prices on the market are rising ever higher due to the coronavirus restrictions.
The supply of feed and means of locust control is intended to prevent the possible death of the animals and thus secure the livelihood of the livestock farmers. This can stop the spread of hunger. In addition, the migration to other areas and the conflicts that are partly caused by this will be stopped.
Be be with us and support this efforts with your donation.
Thank you so much,
Michael Tuerk
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