UNHCR’s Vincent Cochetel on CSPAN Washington Journal

Vincent Cochetel, Regional Representative at the UN High Commissioner for Refugees, spoke about drought and famine in Africa, particularly in Somalia. He talked about the extent of the natural disaster, political instability in the region, and the extent of the refugee crisis. He also focused on the logistics of providing aid to refugees and victims and the role of the international community. He responded to telephone calls and electronic communications.

Over 40,000 refugees have arrived at the Dadaab refugee complex since the start of June, bringing the estimated population of the camps to 440,000 people.  Additionally, more than 78,000 Somalis have arrived in southern Ethiopia’s Dollo Ado area since January, overwhelming reception capacities in this remote location.

In Somalia, UNHCR on Monday landed its first airlift in Mogadishu in more than five years. It carried plastic sheets, sleeping mats, blankets, jerry cans and kitchen sets for internally displaced people to collect and carry food. A further airlift is expected on Thursday, followed by a third flight next week carrying high energy biscuits.

By the end of August, the UN Refugee Agency plans to deliver aid to up to 180,000 people in Mogadishu and south-central Somalia – areas affected by a mix of conflict, drought and famine. However, the delivery of this much-needed aid is being hampered by the volatile security situation.

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