Somalia Aid Appeal: Only 31% Of Goal Funded

The United Nations has announced that the aid appeal for famine-stricken Somalia is only 31% funded thus far, which poses a huge problem for the devastated African country.

Somalia is facing one of the biggest humanitarian crises in its history, as the extreme drought has caused severe famine across the country.

Waterborne diseases, such as cholera, have also been spreading throughout the country.

It is estimated that more than one million Somalis have been affected by the famine and various diseases.

Thus, it is extremely important for the UN to reach their goal of $864 million in humanitarian aid appeal to help the forlorn country.

The hostile political situation in the country has also contributed to the displacement of thousands of people. These people are often more at risk of starvation and disease.

Farhan Haq, a deputy spokesperson for the United Nations, said that the humanitarian crisis in Somalia is deteriorating rapidly.

UK Foreign Secretary, Boris Johnson, who visited Somalia a week ago, is said to chair a UN Security Council meeting today to discuss the issues facing Somalia at the moment.

As to how many people have been affected by disease, the UN estimates that there have been more than 300 deaths related to diarrhea since the start of the year, and 13 000 reported cases.

Furthermore, Haq said that more than 257 000 Somalis have left their homes, and 4300 have crossed the border and entered neighbouring Ethiopia.