There is an extensive history of drought and famine in Africa and it is devastating . Twenty - seven million people are now facing famine . Millions have died . Some governments have refused relief supplies for portions of their countries under rebel control , thus increasing famine levels . U.S. donations to aid run into the millions . Because of the enormity of the problem , donor governments have difficulty in keeping up with requests . The government is cautious about pulling strings to aid . Military forces in Africa have seized some food supplies for themselves and these forces keep the governments in check .
There is an extensive history of drought and famine in Africa and it is continuing. Twenty-seven million people are now facing famine. Millions have died. Some governments have refused relief supplies for portions of their countries under rebel control, thus increasing famine deaths. U.S. donations to Africa run into the millions. Because of the enormity of the problem, donor countries have difficulty in keeping up with requests. The U.S. is debating about attaching strings to aid. Military forces in Africa have seized some food supplies for themselves and these forces keep the governments in power.