The East African region is facing its longest dry spell in 40 years and the fourth drought in a decade, according to Workneh Gebeyehu, executive secretary of the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD). The situation could soon worsen as weather forecasts for the remainder of 2022 are no better, raising the possibility of a record fifth consecutive season of below-average rainfall in the region, according to IGAD. The bloc urged regional governments to “identify root causes of food insecurity in order to formulate and execute context-specific and cost-effective solutions.” IGAD member states must also enhance food and nutrition analysis capacity, early warning and systems, and shift toward climate-sensitive approaches to development, Gebeyehu added. The situation is deteriorating hence the need for the member states to implement early interventions to avoid the loss of lives.