People in the Sahel region and across West Africa, one of the most unequal and impoverished parts of the world, are enduring a severe hunger crisis. Recent rainy seasons have featured long dry spells at critical times in the crop cycle, leading to declines in food production across the Sahel and West Africa region. Insecurity and armed conflict continue to increase the number of people on the move in the region. More than 5 million people have been displaced (or are refugees, having crossed borders) in six countries.
Meanwhile, the conflict in Ukraine, increased demand, inflation, higher fuel prices, and lower food production in the region are all contributing to rising prices of key staple foods.
Oxfam and our partners are helping people in the affected areas, offering food and cash and other lifesaving support to families and children in crisis. We are improving water and sanitation systems while promoting good hygiene to help communities avoid deadly diseases. We distribute seeds, tools, and provide assistance to livestock farmers.
While immediately assisting people affected by this crisis, Oxfam is also advocating for governments in West Africa and international donors to invest in local agricultural production, health, education, water, electricity, and social protection programs for rural communities to help them ensure their long-term food security.
Projects in: Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger, Chad + Central African Republic
