Malawi's President Bakili Muluzi has declared a national disaster in his country due to its worsening food shortage, and made an urgent appeal for international assistance.

Mr. Muluzi announced the emergency late Wednesday after Vice President Justin Malewezi said at least 70 percent of Malawi's 10.5 million people are facing starvation.

The government says it needs at least $21.6 million to relieve the food crisis and that it needs immediate assistance.

Officials blame the hunger problem on floods from last year.

Some information for this report provided by AP.

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