Join representatives from Islamic Relief USA, InterAction, Mercy Corps and Refugees International for a briefing on Capitol Hill about the expanding famine across East Africa.
Speakers include:
- Peter Buth, director of humanitarian practice at InterAction
- Anwar Khan, vice president of fund development at Islamic Relief USA
- Jeremy Konyndyk, director of policy and advocacy at Mercy Corps
- Erin Weir, senior advocate for peacekeeping at Refugees International
The briefing will begin at noon, and will take place in hall B-340, Rayburn House Office Building, located at the intersection of Independence Ave and S Capitol St in Washington, DC.
Lunch will be provided.
If you plan to attend, please send notice to RSVP@irusa.org.
Questions? Contact J. Saleh Williams, Islamic Relief USA government affairs representative at jsaleh@irusa.org or 202-656-4479.
More Information
The Horn of Africa is experiencing the worst drought in 60 years, affecting 13 million people and pushing an additional 750,000 on the brink of starvation and death. Research by the U.S. Agency for International Development reveals that less than half of all Americans are aware or understand the severity of this disaster. Effective aid deliverance is hindered by political instability and regional conflict, particularly in Somalia where the famine is most severe. There is also deepening concern by NGOs about adequate international aid flows due to potential cuts to the USG foreign aid budget. The briefing will bring together speakers from organizations that are on the ground in the region and work to increase awareness and advocacy around the issue.
