Red Cross Stepping Up Aid to Somalia

The International Committee of the Red Cross says it is significantly stepping up its humanitarian operation in Somalia to respond to the deepening crisis there. It says hundreds of thousands of Somalis face life-threatening food and water shortages due to escalating fighting and severe drought in the central part of the country. Lisa Schlein reports for VOA from ICRC headquarters in Geneva.

The International Committee of the Red Cross calls this the worst tragedy in the past decade. It says Somalis have been hit by a number of unfortunate events and these factors have combined to make their lives a misery.

The Red Cross says the worsening security situation and extremely fragile economy are making it increasingly difficult for many rural communities to survive. Because of the drought, it says food shortages are severe and livestock are weakening from lack of grazing land.

The agency says it is increasing its aid to include half a million people. It says it will distribute four months worth of dry-food rations, as well as water and relief goods including household items and shelter materials.

Red Cross Officials say they will be increasing support for medical and health facilities in the country.