May 13, 2013
Ottawa, Ontario — Emergency relief items will be provided to approximately 6,000 vulnerable people who have fled the conflict in the Darfur region of Sudan and been displaced in eastern Chad, announced the Honourable Julian Fantino, Minister of International Cooperation.
"Canada is a compassionate neighbour and is reacting quickly to help alleviate the suffering of those affected by the conflict," said Minister Fantino. "Through Canada's humanitarian assistance, we are ensuring that the most critical needs of those displaced are being met."
Since January, ongoing conflict throughout Sudan's Darfur region has caused significant displacement. It is estimated that 23,000 Sudanese and 16,000 Chadians living in the conflict zone have sought refuge across the border in eastern Chad.
With Canada's assistance, the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies is supporting the Chadian Red Cross to provide Sudanese refugees and Chadian returnees with relief items such as blankets, tarpaulins, plastic mats, water treatment tablets, and sanitation kits, as well as supporting the construction of 300 emergency latrines.
Economic Action Plan 2013 reaffirms Canada's commitment to humanitarian work, such as this support for the people of Chad. As announced in EAP2013, the new Department of Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development will maintain the mandate of poverty alleviation and humanitarian assistance.
"Canada's humanitarian support is a tangible expression of the best of Canadian values," said Minister Fantino. "Canada leaves no one behind and will continue to monitor the situation to ensure humanitarian needs are met."
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