Originally posted by the Voice of America.
Voice of America content is produced by the Voice of America,
a United States federal government-sponsored entity, and is in
the public domain.


Hundreds of Thousands Go Hungry as Food Shortages Grip Drought-Stricken
Lesotho

Lisa Schlein

   GENEVA - The United Nations is urgently appealing for $34 million to
   provide life-saving support over the next four months for more than
   one-quarter of a million people in Lesotho who are suffering from
   severe food shortages.

   The mostly rural population of the small, landlocked country bordered
   by South Africa is almost entirely dependent on agriculture for its
   income. When the rains stop, so do the crops.

   The country is in the grips of a severe drought. The United Nations
   reports half a million people, one quarter of Lesotho's population, is
   facing hunger. It says this year's poor harvest is putting many lives
   at risk, with some 71,000 people just one step away from famine.

   Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs spokesperson Jens
   Laerke said the UN appeal aims to help half of the affected population
   survive this critical period.

   "The relief plan and the flash appeal include food and cash assistance,
   ensuring clean water in priority locations such as health facilities
   and schools; vaccinations to prevent disease outbreaks or spread of
   diseases; rehabilitation of water points and preparing for the next
   planting season; and nutritional interventions for malnourished
   children, pregnant women, and people living with HIV," he said.

   Laerke also noted that Lesotho has the second highest HIV prevalence
   rate in the world at 25.6 percent. Ministry of Health data show an
   increase in cases of severe acute malnutrition. The Ministry said
   children under age five, expectant and lactating mothers, people living
   with HIV and those infected with tuberculosis are particularly
   vulnerable to malnutrition.

   As the drought worsens, Laerke told VOA the number of people migrating
   in search of work is expected to increase.

   "One particular concern with those movements are that it makes,
   particularly women and children--girls in particular--very vulnerable
   to sexual exploitation and abuse," he said. "That is, of course, in and
   of itself deplorable and made even worse when the HIV prevalence rates
   are as high as I just mentioned."

   Laerke said the flash appeal includes money for protection programs to
   try to prevent women and girls from putting their lives and well-being
   at risk.