£500,000 for African relief work

Published on Sunday 17 July 2011 15:03

Scottish relief organisations working in the east of Africa have been given half a million pounds to help with their efforts.

The money from the Scottish Government's international development fund will be used for humanitarian relief in Ethiopia, Kenya, Somalia and South Sudan.

More than 10 million people are said to be at risk from conflict and from the worst drought in the region for almost 60 years.

About 1,300 people a day are reportedly arriving at Dadaab refugee camp in eastern Kenya.

External Affairs Secretary Fiona Hyslop said: "Scotland has many aid agencies working in the affected areas, striving to provide help and relief to those suffering.

"This funding will go directly to support these Scottish organisations and will ensure help is given swiftly and directly to those most in need.

"We are working closely with the Disasters Emergency Committee and helping to raise awareness of its fundraising efforts by carrying a link to the appeal on the Scottish Government website."

Eligible organisations must have a presence in Scotland and experience of working in the countries affected.