Canada giving UNICEF $5M to support humanitarian efforts in Somalia

SURREY, B.C. – The Harper government is setting aside $5 million for UNICEF to address humanitarian needs in Somalia.

International Development Minister Christian Paradis says the funding will help improve the health and well-being of children, women and their families.

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UNICEF is currently working to help some 135,000 malnourished children under the age of five and provide essential vaccinations for 2.2 million children.

READ MORE: UN: Number of world’s displaced over 50 million

The United Nations agency is also attempting to improve access to water for 500,000 people and help 180,000 children receive quality education.

Canada’s contribution will primarily target maternal and child deaths, health systems, nutrition and the burden of leading diseases.