MEDIA RELEASE
Released By:
Downer
I am pleased to announce the allocation of over $6.3 million of Australian
funds to meet ongoing humanitarian and recovery needs in Afghanistan, bringing
our total assistance to Afghanistan since September 2001 to almost $79 million.
This assistance, to be delivered through the Afghan Reconstruction Trust Fund
and selected UN agencies, is enhancing the ability of the Afghan Government to
build a functioning and stable state through the provision of essential services
to the people of Afghanistan.
Australia's aid to Afghanistan has been generous and is targeted at priority
needs including health, mine action, food security, basic education, and
assistance for displaced and returning Afghans.
I was pleased to be able to discuss our program during this week's visit to
Australia by the Afghan Minister for Refugee Affairs, Mr Nazari.
To support the daily operations of the Afghan Transitional Administration,
Australia will contribute $4 million to the Afghan Reconstruction Trust Fund.
The Fund is currently a major source of revenue for the Afghan Transitional
Administration, allowing it to employ teachers, health workers and public
officials and to fund essential services.
In addition, over $2.1 million has been allocated to UN agencies to assist in
recovery efforts, principally in the areas of mine action, female health, and
for reforms to Afghanistan's banking system. Funding includes:
- $1 million to the UN Mine Action Service in Afghanistan - to help clear
landmines in populated areas and to allow the safe delivery of humanitarian
aid; - Over $850,000 to UNICEF's Afghanistan Safe Motherhood Program - to provide
support for emergency maternal health services in Afghanistan's western
region; and - $250,000 to UNDP to enhance the capacity of Afghanistan's Central
Bank.
Australia has also contributed $200,000 to the Information Counselling and
Referral Service for Afghan Returnees to assist returnees reintegrate back into
Afghan society.
Australia remains committed to assisting reconstruction efforts after more
than 20 years of conflict, especially Afghanistan's capacity to meet basic needs
and to restore basic services to its people.
Contacts:
Chris Kenny (Minister's office) 02 6277 7500 or 0419 206 890
Jo Elsom (AusAID) 02 6206 4960 or 0412 804 489