afrol News, 16 October - European Commission ohas today announced 15 million euros (20 million dollars) of emergency food aid for victims of drought and soaring food prices in five east African countries.

According to EU statement more than 10 million people will benefit from new funding, with biggest share going to Ethiopia and Somalia and smaller amounts to Kenya, Uganda and Djibouti.

The money released today by EU's executive arm will help provide food aid, including supplies for malnourished children, along with short-term support for farmers, including distribution of seeds and tools, statement added.

"In some parts of the world, a major catastrophe is brewing because growing numbers of people don't have enough food to survive," said EU Humanitarian Aid Commissioner Louis Michel, speaking on World Food Day.

"The Commission has responded to these urgent needs by dramatically increasing its food assistance to the most vulnerable," he also said.

So far this year commission has provided 134.5 million euros worth of humanitarian aid for countries in the region, including 30 million euros to improve drought preparedness in the region.

By staff writer

© afrol News

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