CathNews New Zealand

Caritas Aotearoa New Zealand is one of the aid agencies to receive some of the $1 million that the Government has made available for African drought relief.

The Foreign Minsister, Murray McCully, has been criticised by aid agencies and opposition parties  with claims of “unacceptable delays” in providing the money.  McCully issued a statement on Friday afternoon saying that money has been allocated to four non-government organisations following a due diligence process.

Mr McCully promised $2 million six weeks ago for Somalia and neighbouring countries in the Horn of Africa. There is no word on the other $1 million.

Caritas Aotearoa New Zealand has pledged NZ$50,000 towards the food and refugee crisis unfolding in the Horn of Africa, and is accepting donations from the public.

‘We are working through partners on the ground in Kenya and Tanzania, and through other agencies from the international Caritas network,’ says Director Michael Smith.

‘This crisis represents a huge challenge for aid agencies and the international community,’ he said. ‘More than 10 million people in the Horn of Africa require emergency assistance due to prolonged drought conditions.’

Donations to Caritas can be made by phoning 0800 22 10 22 or donating online at www.caritas.org.nz.

Source

• Radio New Zealand
• Image: Vimeo.com

Additional reading

• Deadly drought's impact 'shocking'
• Horn of Africa crisis Caritas Aotearoa NZ
• Caritas pledges 50,000
• Caritas appeal worst drought in 60 years
• Watch Video

News category: New Zealand.