Become a committed advocate of the world’s poor

One of the greatest hurdles we face in preventing crises like the one in Niger is lack of awareness. Until we address the root cause of famine—chronic poverty—it will only be a matter of time before images of another crisis stream across our television screens.

The best way to avert such disasters is to make an informed, sustained commitment to wiping out global poverty at its roots. If communities are healthier, better educated, and have access to things like clean drinking water, they will be less vulnerable to disasters like famine. 

In other words, doing your part doesn't come in one easy step. It means making a long-term commitment to addressing the global poverty. It means urging your country to do more to promote global development, and educating others about what they can do to fight poverty.

Start now. Tell a friend or five about the famine in Niger. Teach them why it happened and what it has to do with poverty. Then tell them how they can help make sure it never happens again.