Overseas Aid to donate £80,400 in disaster help
A COMBINED £80,000 has been donated to national charities to assist with international disasters.
The Overseas Aid & Development Commission has agreed to donate £30,400 to Plan International UK to provide relief for victims of flooding and landslides in Haiti, and £50,000 to the British Red Cross for famine relief in Somalia.
‘I am pleased that we are able to make a donation towards Plan International UK’s efforts in Haiti, with our contribution making a real difference to its overall response,’ said OADC president Chris Blin.
‘The general situation in Haiti has grown dire, with 4.7 million people in need of urgent support, of which nearly 80% are children.’
Haiti was hit with flooding and landslides caused by torrential rain in June, in addition to civil unrest, scarce food sources and a cholera outbreak of 20,000 cases.
The flooding and landslides have killed 58 people and injured 143, as well flooding 34,500 homes and destroyed 3,000 homes.
Guernsey’s contribution of £30,400 will help to feed families, secure water supplies, provide hygiene and menstrual health kits, supply educational materials, and set up child protection facilities.
The OADC is also assisting the Red Cross’ efforts in Somalia following its worst drought in 40 years.
Due to the impact of the Russia-Ukraine war on grain supplies and global surge of food prices, crop production has fallen by 70% and contributed to famine.
Over a period of two years, 11m. animals in the Horn of Africa have died.
‘With 2023 being the fifth failed crop harvest in a row, with a projected sixth next year, long term damage is being inflicted on the suffering population,’ said Deputy Blin.
‘The Red Cross has an excellent reputation and package of relief items in place, and we are pleased to support them again in their emergency relief efforts.’
The Red Cross has estimated that 30% of Somalis need humanitarian assistance and protection, and it is working to secure food and livelihoods, health, nutrition and basic water and sanitation. Local funding will provide food and shelter, with specific products including nutritional supplements, ready-to-use food sachets and kitchen sets.
