And the combined effects of drought, war, and poverty in Ethiopia have produced the harrowing crisis that we have seen in recent media reports. Oxfam is working in each of these countries, providing water and sanitation for impoverished communities or displaced people. But aid alone is not enough. It can complement people's own efforts, but Oxfam is also lobbying governments and international bodies to provide the international action that is needed to address the underlying causes of conflicts, and to reduce vulnerability to natural disasters. The world's response to the needs of Kosovo and East Timor was remarkable.
International generosity coupled with political determination can bring about lasting peace.
The problems in Africa are complex, but people must be given the level of assistance to which they are entitled. Lives depend on it. Neither side seems likely to win, or to stop fighting. This is a classic example of a conflict that needs international political action to bring peace for the country and its people. I met Fernando Karloj, pictured here with his family.