While the flood devastation in Pakistan captures the world's attention, another crisis is looming -- one that is placing nearly 8 million people at risk. The United Nations says the African country of Niger is facing the worst hunger crisis in its history. Pictured: A man pours corn into a bucket on a market in Niamey
Some humanitarian aid workers have called it a famine, because the situation is worse than the hunger crisis that hit the former French colony in 1973 and again in 2005.
The U.N.'s World Food Program said at least 7.3 million people are in desperate need of food, which equals half the country's population. Crops have failed and livestock have died.
Facing extreme hunger, many people have resorted to eating leaves and berries.
"It's a disaster," said Raya Sahi. "In our village and all those around us don't have any food. It's been more than 3 weeks since I've even seen a single seed."
While many areas are dealing with flooding from torrential rains, Niger remains drought stricken. Several recent surveys taken throughout the country indicate16.7 percent of children under the age of 5 are acutely malnourished. The U.N. declares a food emergency when the percentage exceeds 15 percent.
Source: CBN News
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