The Isle of Man International Development Committee (IDC) has allocated ?50,000 of Emergency Aid to provide life-saving support to some of the world’s most vulnerable people.

A devastating drought in Ethiopia has led to the country’s worst food shortages in 30 years. The situation has been classed by the United Nations as the world’s third biggest humanitarian crisis. The IDC will support Oxfam’s emergency response by providing ?30,000 for food and safe water for drinking and washing.

A further ?20,000 will be provided to support GOAL, a charity working to assist those affected by the refugee crisis in Europe. Funding will improve the food security of Syrian refugees in southern Turkey by providing e-vouchers for the purchase of food and water.

Funding donated by the Isle of Man is continuing to make a positive difference to disadvantaged people around the world.

Phil Gawne MHK, Chair of the International Development Committee, said: ‘These charities urgently need funding to deliver vital food, water and medical supplies in countries devastated by conflict and natural disasters. The support from the Isle of Man will add to donations from other nations to improve the lives of thousands of vulnerable people.'