Martin visits Uganda and Ethiopia

A NEW five-year plan on Ireland’s development support for Uganda will be launched this week when Minister for Foreign Affairs Micheál Martin, visits the East African country.

He will also tour Ethiopia in a five-day visit of both countries among the biggest recipients of Irish aid.

Although the Irish Aid budget suffered cuts in last year’s budget, Mr Martin said there remains a strong commitment to both countries “working in partnership to make a real impact on the fight against poverty and hunger”.

Before departing yesterday, the minister said: “Our assistance to Uganda and Ethiopia ensures some of the poorest communities in Africa have access to better nutrition and healthcare; that the scourge of HIV and AIDS is being tackled effectively and children have a chance to get a decent education.”

During his visit, Mr Martin will meet with local communities, government ministers, representatives of Irish NGOs and business contacts. He will also meet with Irish missionaries working on the ground in both countries and visit schools, clinics and a hospice funded by Irish Aid.

“I look forward to seeing first-hand the magnificent work of Irish missionaries and NGOs,” he said.

“I also want to explore the opportunities to develop closer trade links between Ireland and Africa. I look forward to meeting Irish business people who are working with African partners in both Uganda and Ethiopia to develop new businesses which can provide jobs and trading opportunities to help lift people in Africa out of poverty.”