NIAMEY, Niger, JULY 28, 2005 (Zenit.org).- Benedict XVI has sent an undisclosed amount of financial aid to drought-stricken Niger, through the Pontifical Council «Cor Unum.»
«I wish to thank the Holy Father for sending through ‘Cor Unum’ a considerable sum of money to help our people suffering the consequences of severe drought here in Niger,» said Archbishop Michel Christian Cartatéguy of Niamey.
The archbishop did not reveal the exact amount the Pope sent, but the amount will appear in «Cor Unum’s» next report in its financial allocations.
«Other Catholic agencies are also sending aid,» Archbishop Cartatéguy told the Vatican agency Fides.
«Some countries have already sent aid and others have promised to do so. We trust they will keep their promises,» said the archbishop.
«Hope is slowly returning in the hearts of the people especially after recent abundant rainfall. However, there will be no harvest until October and November, and in the meantime Niger must rely on help from abroad,» concluded Archbishop Cartatéguy.
