Africa cries for help

Africa is often the subject of much debate and derision. Yet there is also a startling and deep-rooted ignorance about the continent.

The international community, especially developed countries, has failed to engage with Africa in meaningful ways, even when the worst drought in 60 years is causing a humanitarian disaster in parts of the continent.

Famine now affects 12 million people, particularly in Somalia, Ethiopia, Kenya and Djibouti. Hundreds of thousands have been displaced from their homes in search of food and water.