Hunger, Disaster, Hope: Rethinking Humanitarian Action in Africa

Despite unprecedented wealth and progress in the world, the lives of Africa’s extremely poor are characterized by pitiless hunger, preventable diseases, inadequate living conditions and the tragic loss of lives. And their plight is worsening at a rapid pace.

This report takes a critical look at how humanitarian support is implemented in Africa. Its focus is on hope, on moving ahead, and on the belief of the Red Cross Red Crescent that, despite the gloom and the dire distress, the success being achieved by its African National Societies points to a model for the road ahead. Alongside the delivery of relief, proactive involvement at local level – from risk reduction to social mobilization – is paying off.