In the wake of the devastating climate-induced floods in the Horn of Africa, Life for Relief and Development (LIFE) has taken action to aid thousands. As floodwaters surged, so did our determination to deliver life-saving essentials to communities in desperate need.
The Horn of Africa is experiencing one of the worst climate crises in recent history. Prolonged drought followed by torrential rains has left soils unable to absorb moisture, leading to severe flooding. This catastrophe has displaced nearly 1.6 million people and had a negative impact on 2.5 million across Ethiopia, Somalia, and Kenya, with many more at risk.
Disaster response efforts have been hindered in some regions due to the destruction of critical infrastructure, such as roads, airstrips, and bridges. Despite this, LIFE has reached some of the most disaster-stricken areas and helps the people most in need.
Relief in Diinlay Village, Ethiopia
In Diinlay Village in Ethiopia's Somali Region, floods have submerged roads and homes, and contaminated water sources, families and individuals were desperate for food and water.
LIFE distributed 150 food baskets to flood-affected families. Each basket contained rice, wheat flour, cooking oil, sugar, and canned milk powder. This aid reached 900 individuals, including men, women, and children, and indirectly benefited an additional 100 community members.
Emergency Flood Response in Mogadishu, Somalia
The cascading effects of the floods have exacerbated the situation for over 1 million children under five, in Somalia who are now projected to face severe malnutrition. Poverty levels are expected to worsen, especially among the most vulnerable groups. The floods struck while the country was still recovering from the severe drought of 2020-2023, compounding the challenges faced by these communities.
“The recent floods left significant destruction of property and loss of lives in Somalia, affecting millions of lives, and increasing vulnerabilities of an already vulnerable population.” said Deputy Prime Minister Salah Ahmad Jamal.
Food aid from LIFE was sent to 285 households, reaching 1,710 individuals. Each package supports a family of six for eight weeks. It included rice, sugar, maize flour, cooking oil, and Vimto. This effort played a crucial role in stabilizing immediate food security and offering relief to suffering people working to rebuild their lives.
Support in Garissa, Kenya
In Garissa, Kenya, food security in the affected areas was threatened due to flooding and the destruction of key supply chain infrastructure. Reports indicate that the floods have impacted over 47,000 acres of cropland and resulted in the death of thousands of livestock.
LIFE supported 152 flood-affected families with essential food supplies. Each family received packages containing rice, sugar, tea, wheat, oil, jerricans, and salt. This assistance helped stabilize immediate food security for approximately 912 individuals, ensuring they had access to basic nutrition and essentials after the flood.
Voices of Gratitude
Ahmed, a 70-year-old elder of his community, was once a vibrant community leader in Diinlay Village. The floods not only destroyed his home but also stripped away his hope. Receiving the food aid package was a turning point for Ahmed. “I felt forgotten and hopeless,” he shared, tears welling in his eyes. “But this food has given me dignity and strength. I can now share meals with my neighbors and feel a sense of community again.”
"With the help of these supplies, I was able to feed my children and not worry about where our next meal would come from," shared Amina, a mother of three and one beneficiary of the aid.
"These supplies have made a huge difference for us," said Fatima, a single mother of two who lost her home in the flood. "The floods destroyed everything we had, including our food stores and crops. Before, I would often go without meals to make sure my children had enough to eat. Now, I can feed my family without that constant worry. It's been a tremendous relief during these difficult times."
LIFE’s Impact
To date, LIFE has aided thousands of lives in the Horn of Africa during this difficult time. LIFE plans to focus on sustainable solutions, including water filtration systems and long-term food security programs, to continue our goal of providing lasting support.
Join the Movement
Your support can make a world of difference. By donating to LIFE programs in Africa, you are providing more than just food and water - you are transforming lives and giving hope to communities for generations to come.
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