CARE launches new humanitarian programme

The international development and relief organisation, CARE, this week announced plans to establish its first emergency relief programme in Eritrea. In a statement, it said it would be addressing the humanitarian crisis in Eritrea caused by drought and the two-year border war with Ethiopia. Jonathan Mitchell, CARE’s East Africa Regional Director, said: “CARE joins other aid agencies in seeking to raise the world’s attention to the seriousness of the humanitarian situation throughout the Horn of Africa. Due to drought and conflict, millions of people are suffering. We appeal for the world’s attention and for adequate funds to support emergency relief programs.” CARE hoped to provide emergency assistance to local institutions so that they could manage food and seed distribution, landmine awareness and demining, and health care for women and children displaced by the war. It said an estimated one million Eritreans fled their homes at height of the war with Ethiopia. There were currently 50,000 Eritreans in camps in eastern Sudan. Some 350,000 returned to their homes, but many suffered heavy damage in the war, CARE said.