December 2008
Torrential rains have destroyed banana plantations in the Caribbean coastal regions of Costa Rica. It is estimated that up to 10,000 hectares have been affected which could lead to the loss of 10,000 jobs in the banana export industry. At least 46,000 people have been rendered homeless with damage running into tens of millions of US dollars. A state of emergency has been declared in the Limon and Sarapiqui regions.

£2.5 million has been pledged by the authorities to help victims of the flooding and to restore health services and repair roads. However the government has appealed for further help to aid relief efforts.

Our partners, the Coordination of Banana Workers in Costa Rica, COSIBA-CR, whose members organise banana and pineapple workers in the affected areas, have written to ask for funds to help provide food, water and clothing for workers and their families. If you, your branch or region can respond to this appeal please either contact Banana Link on 01603 765670 or at info@bananalink.org.uk or simply send a cheque made payable to ‘Banana Link’ with Costa Rica flood appeal written on the back to:

38 Exchange Street
Norwich
NR2 1AX

Click here to download a copy of the urgent appeal .

Sources:
www.nacion.com
www.bbc.co.uk

Photo: Marvin Carvajal