War Causes Hunger in Mali

As the fight for control over north Mali continues, not only are civilians being afflicted by rebels, but the shortage of food supply is causing health concerns to the people of the area. Luckily, the UN WFP (World Food Programme) has come to the rescue with emergency feedings to the 564,000 people affected by the crisis. We know that the situation is serious when the WFP is providing "Plupy'Sup" which is typically given to young children who are at risk of dying from malnourishment. This article also says that the WFP is also trying bring this food operation to those who have fled Mali, but is in "desperate need of funding."
The WFP are not the only ones tending to this hunger crisis, the Catholic Relief Services and the McGovern-Dole programme is also sending meals to the children of Mali.

 I think that this issue in Mali relates to what we discussed in class about poverty vs. wealth. Even though different services have come to aid this crisis, these people are still receiving only about one meal a day, which is way less than other people receive without aid. Obviously, these people are in a crisis situation caused by war, so this problem with malnourishment isn't just caused by poverty. But regardless of the reasoning,  these people aren't going to stay well-nourished on just one meal a day. I don't mean to diminish the work that WFP, and other organizations are doing, I am very encouraged by the the impact they have had on Mali. I think that their compassion to the situation just shows that giving to others goes a long way.   But, I do think that there are enough people in the world who know about this crisis and who have wealth that they can share with organizations like the WFP to feed these people.

http://thinkafricapress.com/mali/war-drought-and-hunger-mali
11:19 pm
1/30/13