If you think food prices in American supermarkets are bad consider for a moment how tough it must be in East Africa. In countries like Ethiopia and Somalia, where poverty and drought and civil war are the norm, the rise in food prices is hitting particularly hard. According to Oxfam International, 2.6 million people in Somalia and 4.6 million people in Ethiopia require emergency assistance. Banff-born pop star Sandi Thom joined Oxfam Scotland workers as they put up an 11,000-litre water tank as an example of how donations can help.

From the BBC: "Ms Thom said: 'The water tank we have built today gives people an idea of where their money goes and how Oxfam responds in an emergency. Drought and rising food prices are some of the main causes that are propelling millions of people in East Africa towards severe hunger and destitution. The work that Oxfam is doing in East Africa is essential and sadly necessary.'"

You can donate to Oxfam's East Africa Appeal here.

[Image: BBC]