Canada to put $75 into nutrition supplements for developing nations, as well as $58.5 for polio eradication

From The Toronto Sun:

OTTAWA – Canada is putting $75 million into nutrition supplements for developing nations as part of its G8 commitment to maternal and child health, International Co-operation Minister Bev Oda announced Monday.

The cash will pay for micronutrients like iodine and vitamin A supplements that cost as little as pennies per pill but make a big difference in children's health.

Oda also announced $58.5 million for polio eradication, separate from Canada's G8 commitment to put $1.1 billion into mother and child health over five years.

In a statement, Oda said improving the health of people living in poverty is “the foundation needed to realize sustainable results in all other development sectors.”

“With increased effectiveness and focus on proven interventions, Canada's international efforts in health are making a significant contribution to a healthier world. I am proud of Canada's leadership in maternal and child health, polio eradication, and nutrition.”

Most of the money will to go to sub-Saharan Africa, with 80% of it going to Canadian focus countries Ethiopia, Mali, Mozambique, Sudan, and Tanzania, as well as non-focus countries Malawi and Nigeria. The rest of the money is going to Afghanistan, Haiti and Bangladesh.

The Micronutrient Initiative, a Canadian aid organization, and the Global Polio Eradication Initiative will administer the cash.