GENEVA – The World Food Programme (WFP) has warned that an estimated 13 million people in Ethiopia, Kenya, and Somalia are suffering starvation as the Horn of Africa grapples with the worst drought since 1981.

WFP Spokesperson Tomson Phiri told a press conference in Geneva on Tuesday that the severe drought was widespread and likely to worsen, with livestock dying and pastoral families facing devastating losses. Harvests in affected areas were as much as 70% below the norm after three consecutive failed rainy seasons, according to the WFP Spokesperson.

Furthermore, he said that food and water prices were increasing, resulting in a dramatic drop in the terms of trade, according to reports.

"Given the likelihood of a below-average rainy season from March to May, the next two to three months will be crucial. Early action was essential to prevent a humanitarian calamity in the Horn of Africa," he added.

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