November 2, 2010
Ottawa, Ontario—The Honourable Beverley J. Oda, Minister of International Cooperation, today wrapped up the first Canadian Muskoka Initiative Roundtable, which brought together leading Canadian health and international development experts to discuss how Canada can better improve the health of mothers and children in developing countries.
"As part of our commitment to the Muskoka Initiative, this Government pledged to draw on Canadians' expertise and knowledge in maternal and child health," Minister Oda said. "Over the past two days, these top experts have been sharing the latest research, knowledge, and ideas to ensure that our programs deliver tangible results where they are most desperately needed. This roundtable will help inform the government's analysis and decisions as we move forward. I thank all the participants for their contribution and commitment to this important process."
Minister Oda also announced the launch of the Muskoka Initiative Partnership Program to fund projects carried out by Canadian organizations and their counterparts in developing countries to help save lives and improve the health of mothers, newborns, and children. The Minister also launched a call for proposals under the new program. The total funding available is $75 million over five years and is part of the $1.1 billion in new funding under the Muskoka Initiative for maternal, newborn and child health.
"I encourage all interested Canadian organizations who wish to contribute to Canada's efforts to submit a proposal," said Minister Oda. "I am confident that our Canadian partners have the expertise, experience , and know-how to undertake initiatives that will result in sustainable, long - lasting results for mothers and children in developing countries. Canada has been a leader in drawing global attention to maternal, newborn , and child health issues, and now, with our partners here in Canada, we can mobilize Canadians and make a difference."
Canada's total investment in maternal, newborn , and child health between 2010 and 2015 is an estimated $2.85 billion.
For more information on maternal, newborn and child health.
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Information:
Jessica Fletcher
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of International Cooperation
Telephone: 819-953-6238
Media Relations Office
Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA)
Telephone: 819-953-6534
Email: media@acdi-cida.gc.ca
