The Isle of Man is donating more money to help people in need in Yemen and east Africa.

A further £50,000 has been provided to the two appeals, bringing the island’s total contribution to £150,000 for each.

In Yemen, the civil war that has been raging since 2015 has resulted in large scale food and water shortages and rising malnutrition. The situation has now reached crisis point and the country is on the verge of famine.

Across east Africa, drought and conflict have left 16 million people on the brink of starvation and in need of food, water and medical treatment.

In Kenya, the government has declared a national emergency, while Ethiopia is facingf drought.

Chief Minister Howard Quayle MHK said: ’The Isle of Man Government’s disaster and emergency relief budget provides financial assistance to DEC appeals. Our increased support for international aid efforts in both Yemen and East Africa reflects the continuing severity of these crises.’

The DEC brings together the fundraising efforts of 13 major UK agencies who are reaching millions of people with life-saving aid such as food, water and sanitation, cash assistance and food vouchers.