The United Nations has declared a famine in two areas of southern Somalia as it suffers
the worst drought in more than half a century. Tens of thousands of people have already
died in Somalia from causes related to malnutrition, with neighboring Djibouti, Ethiopia
and Kenya also badly affected. Malnutrition rates in Somalia are among the highest
in the world. The worst-hit areas are the Bakool and Lower Shabelle regions in southern
Somalia, most of which is held by Islamic militia groups whose commanders banned aid
agencies two years ago, and have only very recently begun allowing limited aid to
reach those in most dire need. Listen