MP Goldring announces support to the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization to help protect livelihoods and preserve access to safe and nutritious food for families in Somalia
August 11, 2014 – Edmonton, Alberta – Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development Canada
Today, on behalf of Christian Paradis, Minister of International Development and La Francophonie, Peter Goldring, Member of Parliament for Edmonton East, announced that Canada is helping to provide humanitarian assistance to at least one million Somalis affected by conflict and drought, through the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).
Somalia is home to one of the most complex and longest-running humanitarian crises in the world.
“Years of conflict and insecurity, as well as recurring drought, have led to an intolerable situation in Somalia,” said MP Goldring. “While we are here safe in Canada, millions of Somalis are facing hunger or long-term food insecurity. With Canada’s support, the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization is helping to meet both the immediate needs of Somali families and to build resilience in Somali communities.”
This funding is helping to improve the ability of Somali communities to resist the effects of chronic drought and food insecurity. Farmers will be provided with training and the means to boost their agricultural production, and local authorities will receive support to improve their resource management and disaster risk reduction capacity.
“Canada wants to help break the cycle of chronic drought and food insecurity in the Horn of Africa region, and Somalia in particular,” said Minister Paradis. “As always, Canada's commitment to providing quick and effective humanitarian assistance in emergency situations expresses Canadians’ compassion and readiness to assist those in need.”
When natural disasters, conflict, and situations of food insecurity requiring a humanitarian response occur, Canada works with United Nations humanitarian agencies, the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, and non-governmental organizations to provide appropriate, timely and effective assistance to save lives and alleviate human suffering.
Sandrine Périon
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of International Development and La Francophonie
343-203-6238
sandrine.perion@international.gc.ca
Media Relations Office
Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development Canada
343-203-7700
media@international.gc.ca
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