US Ambassador calls for support to Haiti

KIGALI - The United States Ambassador to Rwanda, Stuart Symington Friday called on everyone across the world to join in efforts aimed at supporting victims of the Haiti’s earthquake – a tragedy that left the country in ruins with over 100,000 people dead. Symington made these remarks at a ceremony that was organized by Partners in Health to raise funds for the same cause. “We have a choice. We either live in the shadow of this tragedy, or walk forward in the light of the heroism, the strength and the nobility both of the Haitian people and the world’s response,” the Ambassador said. “For me, the choice is clear. We must light up the candles of Haiti’s future and make sure we go through these moments together. I would therefore like to commend Rwanda for responding to the needs of the Haitian people before most countries did,” Symington said. The Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Health, Dr. Agnes Binagwaho, also added her voice to the cause by thanking Partners in Health for this gesture as she also highlighted that this catastrophe will be overcome by solidarity. “We are all members of sister nations, and while Rwanda will continue to stand up for Haiti, I would also like to commend this idea of our partners in health and hopefully we will together restore this originally strong country of innovation, liberty and vision,” she said. According to a Haitian based in Rwanda and working with MONUC, Margalie Germain, the ceremony raised Rwf 2.14m. However the amount from the silent auction that also took place the same day, is yet to be established. “It is impressive to have such huge support from the Rwandan community and other partners of this nation. Our aim is to raise at least $100,000 and we are certain that this will be possible considering that we are also going to start running some fundraising shows on radio 10,” she explained. The government last week announced $100,000 in aid to Haiti. According to reports, over 2 million people have been left homeless while over 150,000 people were killed in the devastating quake. Ends

National

US Ambassador calls for support to Haiti