Minister Kitt announces emergency funding for those affected by African floods - One Million Euro approved for Emergency Relief Efforts

The Minister of State for Overseas Development, Michael Kitt TD, today approved up to one million euro in emergency relief funding to help flood victims in Ghana and Uganda. Ghana and Uganda are two of the countries worst affected by the recent floods in Africa.

The Irish Aid funds will be used to supply emergency relief to 7,000 families in the Armuria district of Uganda and 18,000 families in the upper eastern and western regions of Ghana. The relief supplies will include blankets, mosquito nets, sanitation materials, plastic sheeting and water purification kits. The funding will also be used in the coming months to support programmes to restore the livelihoods of those worst affected by the floods. The funds will be distributed through NGO partners and UN agencies.

Minister Kitt made the announcement in Mozambique. The Minister is paying an official visit to the Irish Aid programme in Mozambique and yesterday launched a new strategy for Irish development cooperation in the country. Announcing the emergency relief funding, Minister Kitt said

"These floods have had a disproportionate effect on the poor in Uganda and Ghana. We are providing immediate relief supplies to those worst affected and will support them in the coming months as they attempt to rebuild their lives."

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25-09-07

Press Office