House Committee Examines Famine in East Africa

On March 28, the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on Africa, Global Health, Global Human Rights, and International Organizations held a hearing, “East Africa’s Quiet Famine.” The hearing focused on the causes of famine in the region and efforts to address the needs of vulnerable populations, including pregnant women and children.

The following witnesses testified:

• Matthew Nims, acting director, Office of Food for Peace, Bureau for Democracy, Conflict and Humanitarian Assistance, U.S. Agency for International Development;
• Ken Isaacs, vice president, Programs and Government Relations, Samaritan’s Purse;
• Michael Bowers, vice president, Humanitarian Leadership and Response, Mercy Corps;
• Thabani Maphosa, vice president for Food Assistance, World Vision International; and
• Faustine Wabwire, senior foreign assistance policy advisor, Bread for the World Institute.