At a press conference on 10 July, Minister of International Development Hilde F. Johnson (Christian Democrat) announced that Norway will contribute an additional NOK 30 million in humanitarian aid to Ethiopia and Eritrea. This brings the total amount of Norwegian humanitarian aid in connection with the drought in the Horn of Africa since the onset of the crisis in 2002 up to NOK 170 million.

The food situation in Ethiopia and Eritrea has steadily deteriorated since the end of last year. It is estimated that between 15 and 16 million people are in need of food aid and other assistance.

"The aid from Norway and other countries has made it possible to avoid the worst of the crisis in Ethiopia. The situation in Eritrea is still very serious. It is therefore important that more countries follow Norway’s example and contribute more funds," said the Minister.

The funds are being channelled through UNICEF, the World Food Programme, Norwegian Church Aid and the Norwegian Red Cross.

These funds will go to health, nutrition and the water sector. Of the funds earmarked for Ethiopia, NOK 7 million will be channelled through UNICEF and NOK 8 million through Norwegian Church Aid. Of those earmarked for Eritrea, NOK 7 million will be channelled through the World Food Programme, NOK 7 .5 million through UNICEF, and NOK 1 million through the Norwegian Red Cross.

Press contact: Head of Information Espen Gullikstad, mobile phone: +47 91 70 81 22.