The head of the World Council of Churches has urged governments in the Horn of Africa to do everything possible to ensure aid reaches those in need.
The region is facing its worst famine 60 years, with approximately two million Somalis facing starvation.
WCC General Secretary Rev Dr Olav Fykse Tveit lamented the fact that more people were dying because food and medical aid was being blocked by Al Shabaab rebels.
"This interference with humanitarian aid is inhumane and must be strongly condemned," said Dr Tveit.
"People of all ages are dying, hour by hour.
"Governments must find workable solutions to the political circumstances that hinder the delivery of water, food and other supplies.
"The famine is a human tragedy that should be addressed immediately, regardless of political struggles in a given nation."
Dr Tveit challenged the international community, including African churches and church aid agencies to "move swiftly" to make aid available, while also calling on all Christians to keep praying for the people affected by the famine.
"Innocent lives are at stake," he said.