MEDIA RELEASE
Released By:
Smith
Today, at the African Union Summit in Addis Ababa, I met with Foreign Minister Wetang'ula of Kenya.
Kenya is one of Australia's longest-standing and most important relationships in Africa. Australia has contributed more than $22 million in aid to Kenya since 2003.
I discussed with Minister Wetang'ula Australia's concern about the growing food security crisis in the Horn of Africa, which has now extended to Kenya.
I advised him that the Australian Government will provide a further $2 million to deliver much needed humanitarian assistance to the people of Kenya.
Funding of up to $1 million will be provided to Australian Non-Government Organisations (NGOs) working in Kenya, to provide immediate humanitarian assistance for people affected by this crisis.
The balance will be provided to the World Food Programme (WFP). The WFP's emergency operations are currently providing food assistance to nearly 1.5 million Kenyans affected by drought and post-election violence.
Media Contacts:
Mr Smith's Office: Adam Siddique 02 6277 7500 or 0407 473 630
Departmental : (02) 6261 1555