The human and environmental disaster taking place in north-east Africa has been an important news item through the summer of 2011. It is also the focus for a major aid appeal to governments and people throughout the World.

News and aid agencies do provide some geographical facts about locations, causes and consequences of the famine.

How well do you understand what is going on in this poor and environmentally damaged part of the world?

This resource focuses on the geographical facts to help you with your knowledge and understanding of this humanitarian crisis. But first, let's test your knowledge of Africa in a little quiz.