Serge Ibaka, Spanish National Basketball player launches an initiative linked to the Eurobasket games, which starts today in Lithuania, to support UNICEF's work in the Horn of Africa. “I am African so I know the difficulties that millions of people go through in the African continent. This problem is very close to me and for me is a moral duty to support and help the people of the Horn of Africa now. I hope people realize that these persons need our help urgently and cooperate with UNICEF," said Ibaka.
Ibaka, who finished the 2010-2011 season as the best shot-blocker recording 21 blocks in 8 friendly matches this summer, will donate to UNICEF 100 € for every block during Eurobasket. Today begins the action “Block the hunger” through which Serge Ibaka supports those affected by the nutritional emergency in Somalia, Kenya, Ethiopia and Djibouti. To join the initiative donate online or text HAMBRE to 28028 (only in Spain).
Each SMS costs 1.20 Euros, an amount that can cover the cost of a day treatment for a malnourished child.
Millions of children caught in drought and famine crisis. More than 12 million people across Somalia and the Horn of Africa are suffering a deadly combination of drought, escalating food prices and armed conflict. This number is steadily increasing.
This is the worst food crisis in the world today, requiring UNICEF's expertise to save young lives immediately.
Among the most vulnerable to the drought and famine are children under the age of five in Somalia, Kenya, Ethiopia and Djibouti. In Somalia alone, 1.4 million children are affected.
Malnutrition rates are at critical levels as the region suffers its worst dry spell in 60 years, compounded by rising food prices. The United Nations has declared famine in five regions of Somalia, including in camps for displaced families. In these famine zones, almost 10% of the children under age 5 die every 3 months. Famine is likely to spread to all of southern Somalia without immediate assistance.
UNICEF is the largest supplier of therapeutic and supplementary nutrition in Somalia. Despite the challenges to a country torn apart by conflict, insecurity and poverty, UNICEF is able to operate to ensure that supplies reach children. UNICEF is working with over 20 partners in the field.