East African drought 'worst food crisis of 21st century'

Aid agencies have launched emergency appeals after warning "millions of people" face a fight for survival because of the worst drought in East Africa in decades.

Today leading British charities said famine could be declared within days if more food does not arrive in the area.

Oxfam has launched a £50million appeal, its largest ever in Africa, in response to the crisis, which is affecting more than 12million people in Ethiopia, Somalia and Kenya.

Save the Children launched a £40million appeal to help children in Somalia and Kenya and the British Red Cross is also calling for funds.

In the worst-hit areas 60 per cent of livestock has died.

Jane Cocking, Oxfam's humanitarian director, said: "This is the worst food crisis of the 21st century and we are seriously concerned. The crisis is only going to get worse over the coming months - we need funds to help us reach people with life-saving food and water."