Benedict XVI appeals for drought victims in Africa

Jul 17, 2011 / 10:05 am

Pope Benedict addressed the severe African droughts in his prayers following the Sunday Angelus on July 17.

“I am following with deep concern the news from the Horn of Africa, particularly Somalia, stricken by a severe drought and then, in some areas, even by heavy rains that are causing a humanitarian catastrophe,” the Pope said, according to Vatican Radio.

The Catholic Agency for Overseas Development recently reported that 10 million East Africans are facing starvation and death due to the severe drought. The agency noted that this year’s conditions are the worst in living memory.

Rain is not expected until October.

“I hope international mobilization grows to send timely relief to our brothers and sisters already sorely tried, among which there are so many children,” the Pope continued. “May our solidarity and the concrete support to all people of good not fail these suffering people.”