Source: Department of Foreign Affairs Canada |

Minister Bibeau announces projects to support people of South Sudan

OTTAWA, Canada, June 19, 2017/APO/ --

The Government of Canada is deeply concerned about the devastating humanitarian situation in South Sudan where ongoing and escalating conflict is ravaging the country.

The Honourable Marie-Claude Bibeau, Minister of International Development and La Francophonie, today concludes a four-day visit to South Sudan, where she witnessed first-hand the extreme suffering of the South Sudanese people, the result of the severe food crisis affecting nearly half the country’s population and the ongoing conflict.

Minister Bibeau met with South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir Mayardit and Riek Gai Kok, Minister of Health, to discuss the conflict and its devastating impact on civilians, most notably women and children. The Minister also visited Jonglei region, where she observed the World Food Programme’s humanitarian relief operations and spoke with local civilians, especially women, affected by the crisis.

In response to the food crisis in South Sudan (and similar situations in Somalia, Nigeria and Yemen), the Government of Canada created the Famine Relief Fund. Until June 30, 2017, Canada will contribute one dollar aside into the Fund for every eligible dollar donated to registered Canadian charities that are raising funds to fight the famine.

During her trip, Minister Bibeau announced $86 million in funding for four development projects that will respond to the basic needs of vulnerable South Sudanese people. Canada’s investment will help improve access to basic health services, including family planning and reproductive health care for women and girls. It will also help to protect livelihoods and increase access to food for vulnerable communities, as well as improve the capacity of organizations to operate in South Sudan’s highly challenging environment.

Canada is also working in conflict-affected communities of South Sudan to help end violence, mediate disputes and lay the foundation for sustainable peace. By promoting cooperation and dialogue between communities, Canada is helping reduce violence and increase stability, thereby allowing development investments to take root.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Department of Foreign Affairs Canada.