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PLENARY

The Chair convened a brief plenary in the afternoon to hear statements from four Eastern African ministers. At the end of the Plenary, Kenya announced that it will contribute US$5,000 to the Secretariat Trust Fund.

DJIBOUTI: Omar Chirdon Abass, Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, reminded delegates of the urgency of the desertification problem in his country, which, if inadequately addressed, will soon become irreversible. He noted that Djibouti is a pastoral and nomadic country with an unprecedented crisis facing its traditional livelihoods. He challenged the international community to exercise its responsibility in providing sufficient financial resources.

ERITREA: Dr. Tesdai Germazien, Minister of Agriculture, noted the devastating environmental effects of Eritrea's 30-year war of independence with Ethiopia. He noted that Eritrea has spared no effort in combatting its environmental problems. These efforts would not have been possible without the involvement of NGOs. He added that his country is now ready to prepare a national action programme on desertification.

UGANDA: Victoria Sekitoleko, Minister of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries, said that the problem of desertification and drought emanates from poverty. She stated that the real issue is not the actual amount of money to be provided, but rather the spirit in which it will be given. She said that time must not be wasted in establishing new institutions "while deserts grow." Instead, what is needed is a small secretariat to coordinate the Convention. She noted that project money channelled into Africa rarely achieves concrete results. Africa must be empowered to ensure effective project completion and follow-through. She also urged the participation of women.

ETHIOPIA: Gedio Asfan, Vice-Minister of the Ministry of Natural Resources, Development and Environmental Protection, said that desertification is a global problem that requires global cooperation. It is a problem that affects and is affected by climate change. He also noted the need to treat equally the conventions on climate change, biodiversity and desertification.

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