- Assistant Minister for Foreign Affairs, the Hon Tim Watts MP
Australia will provide $15 million in emergency assistance in response to the hunger crisis in the Horn of Africa and Yemen.
The region is on the brink of widespread famine.
In Ethiopia, more than 20 million people are in urgent need of food assistance. In Somalia, hundreds of thousands of children are malnourished. The current level of hunger in Yemen is unprecedented.
The Albanese Government's assistance will deliver food, water and other essential support through the World Food Programme (WFP) and trusted non-government organisations which comprise the Emergency Action Alliance.
This funding builds on more than $50 million already committed by Australia to the WFP for food assistance in 2022-23, and $157 million for the WFP in 2021-22, and ongoing support contributing to food security and famine relief.
Australia stands with global partners working to address the food security crisis and to meet the challenges posed by conflict and climate change.
Australians can directly support those facing this hunger crisis by donating to the Emergency Action Alliance.
Quote attributable to Minister Conroy:
"Australia is concerned about the rising levels of food insecurity globally. This support will help avert famine and provide life-saving assistance in the Horn of Africa and Yemen."
Quote attributable to Assistant Minister Watts:
"Australia wants to expand our engagement with African countries, including working with Ethiopia, Somalia and Yemen to overcome the enormous food insecurity challenges they are grappling with."
