Fears are rising in developing countries about food shortages, as wheat prices start to soar.

ActionAid Mozambique says that unrest in Mozambique’s capital Maputo - following the government’s move to increase the price of bread by 30% - underlines the need to improve food security.

The charity believes increasing financing for small-scale farming is crucial if hunger is to be addressed.

Country Director Amade Suca said: “The reason people are rioting is because they have to spend such a large part of their income on food. Investing more in supporting small farmers will help raise incomes and improve food security.

“The government of Mozambique must continue helping people grow and eat traditional crops such as cassava and potatoes and to develop alternatives to bread.”

Meanwhile ActionAid Mozambique is making sure the local children and communities it works with are safe.

Its programmes are backed by ActionAid supporters from around the world, especially by child sponsors in the UK, Netherlands, Italy, and Spain.

Further information from Jane Moyo, ActionAid Media Team on 07734 023347.