MEDIA RELEASE
Released By:
Smith
Today I visit several humanitarian programs in Ethiopia where Australian assistance is providing essential relief.
Australia provides significant humanitarian assistance to Ethiopia. This is reflected by the Government's contribution of $11.5 million in September last year to the World Food Program (WFP), to UNICEF for
severe drought relief and to Australian Non-Government Organisations working in Ethiopia.
As a long standing supporter of the WFP, Australia has contributed more than $15 million to its
operations in Ethiopia since 1999, including $5 million last year.
The WFP has a very good track record in Africa with the capability and resources to quickly and
effectively deliver food aid to a wide area.
I will see WFP work first hand at its sites outside of Addis Ababa, the Nazareth Logistics Hub and
Nazareth Urban HIV/AIDS Food Distribution Projects.
Australia's support for the WFP also includes the provision of Australian technical personnel. Late last year, the WFP sought Australian logistical support. In response, AusAID will provide funding for an
Australian logistics manager for the first quarter of this year.
I will also visit World Vision's Agricultural Technologies Project. The project introduces farmers to
intensive farming techniques and better alternatives for basic food production and preparation.
World Vision has a substantial presence in Ethiopia and Australia continues to contribute to its efforts. Today the Government will provide World Vision Australia with $300,000 for their continued work in
Ethiopia. This is part of $1.5 million for Australian NGOs working in Ethiopia announced late last year.
Maternal and child health remains a serious issue across Africa. It is a key part of Australia's support to Africa and will become even more significant in the future. Since 1984, Australia has supported the Hamlin Fistula Hospital in Addis Ababa and has helped extend its services to rural locations.
During my visit to the Hamlin Midwifery College, I will meet with Dr Catherine Hamlin, its co-founder. The Australian Government will provide an additional $2.3 million to fund the expansion of the hospital's Midwifery College and support 25 rural maternal health clinics in Ethiopia.
By 2010, the college expects to train and deploy up to 20 midwives per year with a total student body of 60 midwives at any one time.