The Government says it will provide $1 million to a United Nations food relief programme in the Sahel region of West Africa.
Foreign Affairs Minister Murray McCully says poor rains, crop failure and high fuel prices have led to food shortages and malnutrition across the Sahel region.
He says almost nine million people need immediate food assistance and the crisis could affect 23 million people if essential needs are not addressed.
Mr McCully says the Government will continue to monitor the situation as it develops and will consider further assistance if required.
