Protein offer gratefully accepted by Africa

Starving children on Rusinga Island in Africa's Lake Victoria have accepted the controversial donation of New Zealand protein supplements which stirred controversy over perceptions they were being offered dog food.

Residents of Rusinga Island in Nyanza said the donation would "make a difference in the lives of helpless children", the East African Standard newspaper reported.

Rusinga Development Forum members defended New Zealand dog food manufacturer Christine Drummond from criticism over her offer of 42 tonnes of supplements, describing it as "a noble gesture".

At a press conference at Nairobi's Chester House this week, forum vice-chairman Michael Ooro said Ms Drummond's offer had been driven by compassion.

"The magnitude of children's plight in this area is much greater than many people think," he said.

Mr Ooro said the children, who were deprived of all essential needs, had stunted physical and mental growth. He criticised Mbita MP Otieno Kajwang, who told journalists his constituents would reject food initially meant for dogs.

His comments were accompanied by others from Kenyan officials who had described the aid offer as "absurd", "insulting", "offensive" and "immoral".

Aid agencies have said drought, crop failures and massive food shortages have left millions of people without access to adequate food. The number of people at risk is estimated at between 2.5 million and 3.5 million.

- NZPA