Bahrain Donates $3 Million of Humanitarian Aid to Somalia, Continues Efforts with Day-Long Donation Campaign

MANAMA, Bahrain, Aug. 12, 2011 /PRNewswire-Asia/ -- Bahrain yesterday approved a $3 million donation in emergency aid for famine-stricken Somalia and will continue donation efforts with a day-long telethon airing tomorrow.

"The idea is to generate as much as we can for the people of Somalia, who are facing one of the worst humanitarian crises," said a Bahrain Radio and Television Corporation spokesman.

Tomorrow's campaign, led by the Information Affairs Authority, will broadcast documentaries on the plight of the Somali people and will feature popular culture, art, entertainment and sports personalities to encourage participation and giving.

"People from all walks of life in the kingdom will be invited to take part in a marathon discussion, during which callers will be invited to pledge donations in cash or kind," he said.

Donations from Bahraini citizens will be in addition to the $3 million already donated by the government.

"We are confident the people of Bahrain will donate generously during Ramadan, the month of giving. While we are mostly looking at cash donations, those in kind will also be accepted," the spokesman said.

Tomorrow's telethon will air on Bahrain TV from 2pm to 6pm and 9pm to midnight.

This has been distributed by Qorvis Communications on behalf of the Kingdom of Bahrain.