aids

South African charity, Gift of the Givers, has stepped up its drive to bring humanitarian aid directly to desperate, starving Haitians as red tape hampers international relief efforts.

The organisation’s Imtiaz Sooliman, points out that the charity is negotiating the passage of 100 tons of high-nutrition food parcels and medical supplies to be distributed independently.

The move could speed up delivery to areas poorly serviced by United Nations (UN)-led agencies.

South African President Kgalema Motlanthe says the G20 summit has agreed to protect financing for developing countries, and pledged to conclude talks on a new global trade deal.

"There's a recognition that the developing countries offer an opportunity for growth... There's a commitment to ensure that developing countries receive finances particularly in infrastructure," explains Motlanthe.