OWDA was founded by mohamed sulub and other team 1999, in response to the famine in the breakaway province of somali region of ethiopia. The widespread conflict that followed Biafra’s attempt to secede from Nigeria caused the displacement of millions and a blockade of food, medicine and basic necessities by the Nigerian authorities. At the height of the crisis in the summer of 1968, it was estimated that 6,000 children were dying every week.

Over time, it was not just aid that was delivered, but Concern volunteers – responding quickly with pragmatic and effective solutions – whose work became the impetus for taking the organisation in a new direction. In 1970, a huge cyclone hit East Pakistan, now Bangladesh, and the public was asked to respond. From these small beginnings, and equipped with practical and visionary leaders – Concern Worldwide was born.

From our beginnings in Biafra and Bangladesh, we continued to respond to major crises around the world with commitment and dedication, establishing a reputation for the effectiveness of our responses. Here is a look at some of the major emergencies that have defined Concern’s work in the decades that followed.