Bonn, 5.10.2007. Following heightened tensions in the East African territory of Somaliland, Deutsche Welthungerhilfe (German Agro Action) is temporarily withdrawing its staff from three high risk project areas: Burao, Erigavo and Borona. Over the last few days, hostilities between Somaliland's clan militia and troops from neighbouring Puntland has resulted in ten deaths and numerous injuries. "The conflict has been building up for a long time," explains Peter Sass, a member of Welthungerhilfe's staff in Burao. "But outbreaks of fighting have now become extremely serious."

One of the causes for hostilities is a dispute over the water supply in the border region between Puntland and Somaliland near the town of Las Anod. According to information, both sides are now building up their military capacity. Observers fear a further escalation when the Muslim month of fasting, Ramadan, ends on 13th October. "The risk of continuing our work in the villages under these conditions is simply too high," explains Sass. Welthungerhilfe's three members of staff will initially remain in Somaliland's more stabile capital, Hargeisa.

Welthungerhilfe is one of the few international organisations to have sent its staff into Somaliland. Since 2001 our work there has focused on rural development, resource protection, food security and drinking water supply. The health and food situation of people in Somaliland - which is not internationally recognised as an independent state - are amongst the worst in the world. "We hope to be able to restart our work soon," says Peter Sass. "People's supplies - particularly in rural areas - are already extremely low."

Peter Sass is available for interviews upon request.

Deutsche Welthungerhilfe is one of the largest non-governmental humanitarian aid organisations in Germany. It provides a complete range of assistance, from rapid emergency aid to long-term projects with local partner organisations in accordance with the principle of promoting self-help. Since its foundation in 1962 around 5,000 projects have been carried out in 48 countries with a total of 1.8 billion euros funding.

For further information see www.welthungerhilfe.de