Horn of Africa famine: UK sends 9,000 tonnes of food aid

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Millions remain in danger as a result of drought and famine in the Horn of Africa, UK International Development Secretary Andrew Mitchell has said.

Mr Mitchell said the latest estimate is that up to 100,000 people may have died between April and August.

More than 9,000 tonnes of UK-funded aid is due to arrive in the region over Christmas, which is expected to feed some 800,000 people.

The minister said millions will "face a fight for life in the New Year".

As well as food, the UK's aid will also fund vaccines and other medical supplies to treat more than 75,000 refugees.

Britain is also providing clean water for more than half a million people in the Horn of Africa as the area struggles to recover from the effects of its worst drought in 60 years.

Based on data collected by the UN, latest UK estimates show that of the 50,000 to 100,000 people who may have died due to drought-related causes, more than half were children aged under five.

The full extent of deaths caused by the drought may never be known, the Department for International Development said.

Mr Mitchell said there were some signs that the situation was improving, but that the situation remained desperate for people who remained malnourished and stuck in camps.

'Fight for life'

Famine status has been lifted in three of the six areas of Somalia but many families remain without sufficient food.

Mr Mitchell said: "Britain can be proud that we have got emergency aid to millions of people during the last six months.

"In many cases, this has been the difference between life and death.

"Millions across the region remain in danger and will face a fight for life in the New Year as they struggle to recover from the drought.

"But British aid is arriving as we speak so that families have enough to eat today and in the weeks ahead, providing hope that there can be a better future."

Mr Mitchell also praised the generosity of the British public, who have donated more than £72m to the Disasters Emergency Committee's East Africa appeal.