The people of Ecuador have been left devastated by a massive 7.8 magnitude earthquake. Over 230 people have lost their lives.
Asmera has just turned 2 and today is being treated for severe malnourishment at a Plan International-run emergency clinic.
Asmera’s mother Mirete explains “As the drought persisted, we have sold everything we had, including our cattle, to sustain our lives. It is not working.”
Oromia in southern Ethiopia used to be rich in agriculture. During any normal year, this would be harvest time. Now things have changed. There is no rain.
The result? Widespread malnutrition leading to stomach cramps, prolonged days of diarrhoea, dehydration and vomiting.
Twice a week, Mirte makes the journey down from her home in the mountains to the last remaining water source which lies at the bottom.
The journey is long, undertaken at night to avoid the midday heat and fraught with danger.
