What We’re Reading: G8 Report Released

Jun 21st, 2010 1:00 PM UTC
By Grace Venhuizen

G8 nations give themselves a passing grade
The “Muskoka Accountability Report” was released on Sunday assessing the G8 nations’ progress so far on promises made at past summits. The report is about more than accountability — it’s also a defence of the G8 in the face of suggestions that the G20 could become the preeminent world forum, notably because it includes emerging powerhouses China and India. The report also identified several areas where overall progress has been slow, including those that have a direct impact on human health and mortality. (Bruce Campion-Smith)

Focus or die: The G8 fights for survival
The upcoming G8 summit will be a make-or-break chance to act cohesively on international security issues, summon a new level of credibility instead of making scattered and oft-ignored promises, and show it can help the world. If this happens, it might survive. Because the G20 has already taken precedence in dealing with global economics, its members are eyeing big parts of what’s left of the G8’s agenda – notably development and aid – and are expecting to take them over. (Campbell Clark, The Globe and Mail)

Aid agencies appeal for funds to stop Africa food crisis
Oxfam and Save the Children appealed for $21 million to halt an escalating food crisis in West Africa, warning the situation was “an unfolding disaster,” as more than 10 million people across the region face severe hunger and malnutrition because of drought and crop failures. Niger is at the epicentre of the crisis, with almost half the population facing food insecurity, said Oxfam who documented instances of Nigerian people living off wild fruits, leaves and maize meant for feeding poultry. (Agence Free Press)

U.S. names countries to get extra health aid
Ethiopia, Kenya, Malawi, Mali, Nepal and Rwanda will receive additional technical and management resources for programs in infectious diseases, maternal and child health, family planning and building health systems. “Global Health Initiative Plus countries will provide enhanced opportunities to build upon existing public health programs” a USAID spokesperson said. Overall about 80 countries are getting help under the program. (Maggie Fox, Reuters)

Kayumba Wounded in South African Gun Attack
Rwanda’s former Ambassador to India, Gen. Kayumba Nyamwasa, was yesterday shot and critically wounded at the gates of his home in Johannesburg. “We learned the news through the media; we have no confirmation of the incident. The Government of Rwanda does not condone violence, and we wish the family strength and serenity,” a Rwandan government spokeswoman said. (AllAfrica.com)

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