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Nicaragua + 2 more

European Commission adopts three new humanitarian aid decisions worth more than € 2 million

IP/02/1846
Brussels, 11 December 2002

The European Commission has recently taken humanitarian decisions concerning Nicaragua (€0.5 million), Paraguay (€0.92 million) and Cuba (€0.6 million). The assistance is channelled through the Humanitarian Aid Office (ECHO), which comes under the authority of Commissioner Poul Nielson.

Nicaragua - €0.5 million

The Autonomous North Atlantic Region (RAAN) of Nicaragua is one of the poorest and most isolated in the country. Between June and September 2002, the area suffered heavy rains and floods, leading to the destruction of up to 90% of crops in certain districts. This has resulted in huge price increases for many basic food products.

The floods occurred against the backdrop of an already severe food crisis. In some areas, more than 10% of the population was already severely malnourished.

The assistance will benefit around 20,000 people, especially women and young children. The funds will be concentrated on providing nutrition, boosting food security and improving water and sanitation systems.

Paraguay - €0.92 million

Parts of western Paraguay have been suffering from drought for the last two years, putting the lives of 200,000 people at risk and leading to the declaration of a state of emergency in October 2002. The drought particularly affects indigenous communities who live on subsistence crops, forestry and hunting.

This decision targets more than 32,000 people living in rural areas. Immediate needs identified are for food rations and clean drinking water for at least three months. Funding will also be provided for the supply of basic medicines to treat respiratory infections, tuberculosis and parasitic diseases.

Cuba - 0.6 million

In September and October 2002, hurricanes Isidore and Lili swept through the western part of Cuba, causing floods and widespread destruction. 55,000 homes were damaged or destroyed, roads and medical facilities were badly hit and there were significant crop losses. In some areas, up to 60% of water supply systems were damaged, increasing the risk of digestive infections, especially among children.

ECHO's funding will go towards providing food supplements, lodging and drinking water for some 28,000 hurricane victims.