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New IFRC report calls for dramatic rethink of humanitarian aid in Africa
The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) is calling for a dramatic rethink of how humanitarian assistance is provided in Africa.
Kenya food distribution
In a new report launched on Friday, it warns that humanitarian assistance is too reactive and costly and is failing to match the growing needs of vulnerable communities across the continent.
The report, entitled "Hunger, Disaster, Hope: Rethinking humanitarian action in Africa", urges humanitarian organizations and governments to review how humanitarian assistance is delivered and funded.
It says instead of focusing so much on responding after a disaster has occurred more money should be directed towards enabling people to face, overcome and thrive in the wake of the challenges confronting them.
The report urges governments and donors to invest more in community projects to reduce the risk of disaster and to enable people to help themselves.
It also explores the impact of early warning systems in Mozambique where hundreds of thousands of people can now evacuate in advance of floods or storms thus dramatically minimizing their damage.
Dianne Penn, UN Radio.
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