Canada raises Darfur aid by C$40m on top of C$170m pledged

Canada is increasing aid to Darfur by $40m, Toronto Star reported May 23:

Peace is still possible in Darfur, Prime Minister Stephen Harper predicted as he announced the aid on Tuesday.

Half of the new aid money will be spent on food aid, water and sanitation, basic health care, and protecting refugees in Sudan and in neighbouring African countries.

Canada has been providing military and technical assistance to the African Union Mission in Sudan, including sending Mounties to train civilian police forces.

Other Canadian military and civilian experts have assisted with strategic planning, logistics and air operations, training, information support, and communications.

Prior to Tuesday's announcement, Canada had allocated $170 million since 2004 to support the African Union mission, making it one of the top three international donors.

- - -

May 23 2006 Reuters report: Canada promises aid but no more troops for Darfur