2008-02-07
OTTAWA – The Honourable Beverley J. Oda, Minister of International Cooperation, today celebrated International Development Week by announcing nearly $400 million for development initiatives in Africa that will strengthen economic growth, fight hunger, and help to ensure basic services can be provided.
Joined by African Ambassadors and High Commissioners in Ottawa, Minister Oda announced $302 million over three years to the African Development Bank, $72.5 million to the World Food Programme for emergency food aid initiatives, and $17 million in contributions to key governance initiatives.
“This Government is proud to be helping countries in Africa where the needs are greatest, and to support projects such as constructing health centres, ensuring health services are provided, enrolling children in school, or improving transportation routes,” said Minister Oda. “By providing this investment, Canada is on track to double its aid to Africa by 2008-09 – aid that will result in long-term poverty reduction and economic growth.”
“Africa needs strong regional institutions such as the African Development Bank ” said the Honourable Maxime Bernier, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Canada’s Governor to the Bank. “This contribution to the African Development Fund is in line with our government’s commitment to double aid to Africa, and I welcome its focus on strengthening infrastructure and governance on the continent.”
“We are committed to delivering results as part of a sustained, cooperative effort between the Bank, and its shareholders in Africa and in the international community,” said African Development Bank President Dr. Donald Kaberuka. “We appreciate Canada's support and confidence in the institution.”
The contribution announced today builds on the Canadian-led Save a Million Lives Initiative announced by the Prime Minister of Canada in November 2007 during a visit to Africa. The initiative will deliver basic, cost-effective and life-saving health services to mothers and children, and is expected to save 200,000 lives in Africa.
The Government of Canada also announced support to the World Food Programme in July 2007 to feed children in African schools.
“Canada has long been a champion of meeting the urgent needs of hungry people in Africa”, said World Food Programme Executive Director, Josette Sheeran. “With soaring food prices, this contribution is needed more than ever to save lives.”
Minister Oda made today’s announcement during International Development Week, which celebrates all aspects of international development and highlights the results achieved by Canada and Canadian organizations and individuals.
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Information:
Joanna Bailey
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of International Cooperation
819-953-6238
Media Relations OfficeCanadian International Development Agency (CIDA)
Telephone: 819-953-6534
E-mail: info@acdi-cida.gc.ca
