Oxfam appeals for £7m aid for West Africans

OXFAM is calling on the people of Edinburgh to support its £7 million emergency appeal for West Africa.

The international aid agency has warned that more than ten million people across West Africa are facing severe hunger and malnutrition because of drought, poor harvests and rising food prices.

And it is calling on Capital residents to support an emergency appeal to help more than 800,000 of the most vulnerable people.

Malcolm Fleming, campaigns manager of Oxfam Scotland, told the Evening News: "We are witnessing an unfolding disaster which can be averted if we act quickly. The next harvests are several months away and people are already desperate.

"People are eating leaves and drinking dirty water.

"Unless we can raise money for this we will be forced to turn our backs on those most in need.

"That is why we are calling on the people of Edinburgh, at a time when we know money is tight, to dig deep into their pockets to help those in the most dire need.

"Just a small amount will make a huge difference."

Donations to the appeal can be made by calling 0300 200 1999, online at www.oxfam.org.uk, or at any Oxfam shop.