Government announces $1m for floods emergency relief

The Federal Government Thursday said it is putting in $1 million to aid the emergency humanitarian support in the country following President Mohamed Farmaajo’s pledge during a visit to Beletweyne Tuesday.

Deputy Prime Minister who is leading the government’s response unit said Thursday the government was leading by example to encourage Somalis to take part in the mission as thousands remain displaced in various parts of the country.

“In order to encourage our Somali people to take part in the support of their people, we in government are contributing one million dollars ($ 1,000,000) to support those affected by the floods,” the deputy Premier said.

Speaking in Beleyweyne Tuesday, President Farmaajo pledged government support to ensure those affected receive adequate support as he upped he appeal for international response.

“We have formed a national disaster committee to respond to the needs of our fellow citizens who have been affected,” he said. “The government stands by your side morally and materially to deliver all the help that we can.”

The UN estimates about one million people have been affected by the floods in the country with over 150,000 forced out of their homes in Beletweyne alone.

The UN World Health Organization (WHO) delivered 4.5 million metric tons of medicines and other medical supplies to Belet Weyne on 29 April.

Hormuud Telecom announced Wednesday a $100,000 donation to the relief efforts.