WASHINGTON, D.C. (November 11, 2009) - The poverty-fighting group CARE released the following statement from Dr. Helene Gayle, its president and CEO, on President Obama's nomination of Dr. Rajiv Shah to head USAID, the U.S. Agency for International Development.
''We at CARE are pleased about the nomination of Dr. Rajiv Shah for USAID Administrator,'' said Dr. Gayle. ''He is a capable, innovative leader and an excellent choice. His leadership is coming at a time when smart, creative solutions are needed to help people living in poor communities around the world. He has a broad background in both global health and agricultural development. His understanding of the essential role USAID plays around the world and awareness of the underlying causes of poverty will be a valuable asset in his new role. Whether it's through the administration's groundbreaking food security and hunger initiative or by helping ensure safe deliveries for expectant mothers, CARE welcomes the opportunity to work with Dr. Shah to improve the lives of people living in poverty. We urge Congress to confirm him swiftly.''
USAID runs humanitarian and disaster assistance programs overseas, extending aid to countries that are recovering from disaster, trying to escape poverty and working on democratic reforms.
''The mission of USAID is to advance America's interests by strengthening our relationships abroad,'' President Obama said in a statement. ''Rajiv brings fresh ideas and the dedication and impressive background necessary to help guide USAID as it works to achieve this important goal.''
Shah, a medical doctor, is 36 years old and in April was named the head of Research, Education and Economics at the U.S. Department of Agriculture where he worked on global food security issues. Previously he was director of agricultural development at the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.
About CARE: Founded in 1945, CARE is a leading humanitarian organization fighting global poverty. CARE places special focus on working alongside poor women because, equipped with the proper resources, women have the power to help whole families and entire communities escape poverty. In 66 countries, women are at the heart of CARE's community-based efforts to improve education, health and economic opportunity.
