MEDIA RELEASE
Released By:
Downer
Australia will contribute a further $12.8 million to the
World Food Programme (WFP) to help ease the current food crisis in Southern
Africa, Ethiopia and Eritrea.
I have held talks today with the Executive Director of the World Food
Programme, James Morris to further discuss priorities for addressing widespread
hunger. Mr Morris is also UN Secretary'General Kofi Annan's Special Envoy for
Humanitarian Needs in Southern Africa.
Australia's latest contribution will be used by the WFP to provide urgent
assistance to millions of Africans made vulnerable by drought, failed harvests
and in some cases poor governance.
The bulk of the funding will go towards WFP activities in Southern Africa,
including Mozambique, Malawi and Zimbabwe. $1 million each will be used for
programs in Ethiopia and Eritrea where 9 million people do not have enough
food.
Despite significant contributions by the European Union and the USA, food
shortages remain critical in these African countries. Shortages are most severe
from January to March, when household food stocks are depleted and crops are yet
to be harvested. Ongoing drought will compound the problem.
In Southern Africa, Zimbabwe is the worst affected country with 7.5 million
people, including 65 per cent of the urban population, needing assistance. Poor
governance, land seizures and drought are responsible for the current crisis.
Close monitoring by Australia and the World Food Programme ensures that food aid
reaches those in need without political interference.
Australia has been a regular contributor to the World Food Programme for many
years. Since March 2002, we have committed $56.28 million to reduce the impact
of food crises in Africa.
Media inquiries:
Chris Kenny (Ministerial) 02 62777 500 or 0419 206 890
Jo Elsom (AusAID) 02 6206 4960 or 0412 804 489