The Honourable Marie-Claude Bibeau, Minister of International Development and La Francophonie, today announced, from Madagascar, that the Government of Canada is providing over $ 7.5 million for three projects that will be implemented in Madagascar.
Canada is announcing the approval of a $ 6.2-million project aimed at enhancing education and training for youth in Madagascar. Thanks to this project, over 2,500 young Malagasy men and women will be able to enter the workforce in the construction and public works, tourism, accommodation and food services, and entrepreneurship sectors. The University of Quebec at Trois-Rivières (UQTR) is the proposed partner for this project, working with l’Agence universitaire de la Francophonie [university agency for French speakers].
The announced funding also includes $ 1.265 million in humanitarian aid to the World Food Programme for people affected by the devastating effects of El Niño and approximately $ 113,000, through the Canada Fund for Local Initiatives (CFLI) for local initiatives dedicated to the empowerment of women, sound governance and sustainable economic growth.
Canada also donated eight fully equipped and modern ambulances to the Malagasy government, which will support local health services.
Minister Bibeau is currently in Madagascar, where she will visit development project sites funded by Canada. She will also meet with project beneficiaries and representatives from various organizations.
Quotes
“We are supporting long-term development programs for Madagascar, as the country’s future depends on the full participation of youth and women. Our support for training and education will foster the conditions to ensure their success. As well, the funds announced today will help some 850,000 people who have been affected by the drought caused by El Niño.”
– Marie-Claude Bibeau, Minister of International Development and La Francophonie
Quick facts
- The funding awarded in response to El Niño is part of a $ 45-million humanitarian aid package to combat the effects of drought around the world.
- UQTR has spent 30 years working with many educational institutions in Madagascar.
- The CFLI is a program that supports small projects proposed and implemented by local organizations and other community organizations, such as village councils, cooperatives and women’s groups.
Distributed by APO on behalf of Department of Foreign Affairs Canada.
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Source: APO – Africa-Newsroom: latest news releases related to Africa
