AU Organizes Event in Aid of the Humanitarian Situation in the Horn of Africa

By Staff Writer 

ADDIS ABABA—The African Union is scheduled to organize an event Monday 15th of August 2011 at 16h00 in the Plenary Hall of the AU Headquaters, to build momentum towards the Pledging Conference on the humanitarian situation in the Horn of Africa on 25th August.

With an underlined theme “One Africa One Voice Against Hunger”, the day has been dedicated to mobilizing and sensitizing the generality of the African peoples and further reiterates the appeal to Member States, the African private sector, the international community, the Diaspora and all well-meaning persons of good will, to donate in kind or in cash so as to fill the gap funding towards assisting the affected population in the Horn of Africa.

At this event, particular emphasis will be on the different areas of requirements needed to alleviate the unbearable plight of the affected populations in the countries affected by drought and famine in the Horn of Africa.

The funding requirement is estimated at about US$ 2 billion in aid to respond to the emergency situation. Out of this, US$ 1 billion has already been funded so far.

Dr Jean Ping, Chairperson of the AU Commission, Mr Jerry Rawlings, Former President of Ghana and High Representative of the African Union for Somalia and prominent Ethiopian personalities are expected to give a press briefing afterwards.