Margaret backs Oxfam’s East Africa emergency response

31/7/08

Edinburgh West MSP Margaret Smith is backing Oxfam’s emergency response in East Africa and is asking local people to do the same. Oxfam is calling on people to donate as millions of people across the region face crisis caused by drought, conflict and rising global food prices. Oxfam is also asking governments to invest in a concentrated action to tackle the underlying causes of chronic poverty.

Oxfam is currently working with people in Ethiopia, Somalia and Northern Kenya to help stop the crisis escalating.  The agency says it needs the support of people throughout the country to make a difference to their emergency assistance operation. 

Commenting, Margaret Smith MSP said:

“Oxfam is doing an amazing job under what are very difficult circumstances.  Life is hard enough for people in East Africa but the current situation makes it impossible for people. I would urge people in Edinburgh to back Oxfam’s work and support people in East Africa. Local people can make a real difference if they donate now.

“What we see happening in East Africa and other parts of the world as a result of chronic poverty is wrong. There is an onus on politicians from all parts of the world to deal with the causes of global poverty. We need to save lives in the short term but need investment in the long term to address the underlying causes of poverty.”

Donate by going to any Oxfam shop, calling 0300 200 100, going to www.oxfam.org.uk or by post to: East Africa Appeal, Oxfam Scotland, 207 Bath Street, GLASGOW, G2 4HZ.