CIDA: Canada Provides Support for Flood-Affected Populations in Africa

"On behalf of all Canadians, I wish to extend my sympathies to those whose lives have been affected by the flooding," said Minister Bernier. "I commend the efforts of local authorities, aid organizations and individuals who are working to bring relief to those in need."

"The Canadian response to the floods will help provide crucial food aid and other emergency assistance," said Minister Oda. "We are continuing to monitor the impact of the flooding to determine how Canada may be best placed to assist."

Heavy rains in recent months have turned large areas of Uganda, Ghana and Togo into flood disaster zones, resulting in loss of life and the significant displacement of people, many of whom have lost their homes and livelihoods. Hundreds of thousands of people have been affected by the flooding and require emergency assistance.

Canadian officials are in close contact with affected governments in the region and international relief agencies who are assessing humanitarian needs and clarifying how the international community can best respond. Canada provides core funding to international humanitarian agencies to enable them to assess humanitarian needs and respond rapidly to such disasters.

There are no reports of Canadians killed or injured by the floods.

For information on how Canadians can help disaster-affected populations, please visit

http://geo.international.gc.ca/cip-pic/library/howcanadians-en.aspx

www.international.gc.ca