Volunteers from across Ireland say they are making a “significant and enduring contribution” to feeding thousands of children in Kenya’s impoverished Turkana region. 

The Horn of Africa is currently experiencing the worst drought in 40 years; five million children are currently at risk of malnutrition and aid agencies have estimated that one person is dying every 48 seconds. 

Furthermore, the war in Ukraine has sent the global price of fertiliser, meaning local farmers are struggling to buy agricultural items that would increase their yield. 

Ereng Kaleng Kalimapus poses for a photo with his wife and child outside their bedroom in Milimatatu Village, Kaeris, Turkana County in Northern Kenya, 27-06-22. Image: Lisa Murray/Concern Worldwide.

Irish charity Mary’s Meals feeds 2.2 million children in 20 impoverished countries and Patricia Friel, Executive Director, said the current situation in Turkana is “nothing short of heart-breaking”.

The charity provides 12,000 children with a daily lunch of maize and beans and Cavan-based volunteer Anna Conroy said she feels like her work is having an impact: 

“Just €18.30 feeds a child for a whole school year with Mary’s Meals,” she said. 

“I can do simple fundraisers, like making pots of jam to sell or raffling a Christmas hamper, and I know that the lives of so many children will benefit from me giving just a little of my time”.

Anyone wishing to donate can do so here.

Main image: A child in Africa. Picture by: Mary's Meals.