I just read this article on CNN that the Bush administration will announce plans to spend $674 million for "humanitarian emergencies" in Africa. BBC News are also covering the story: 'Bush to pledge Africa aid cash'.

"WASHINGTON (CNN) -- The Bush administration will announce plans to spend $674 million for "humanitarian emergencies" in Africa during a visit by British Prime Minister Tony Blair, according to a U.S. official."

It carries on to say:

"U.S. officials have made it clear the White House doesn't want to double aid to Africa or forgive debts unless countries weed out corruption and reform their governments.

Bush told reporters last week that developed countries "are not going to want to give aid to countries that are corrupt, or don't hold true to democratic principles, such as rule of law and transparency and human rights and human decency.""

Ok, so let's look at the figures. $674 million is 0.0016% of the US military expenditure alone (2005 FY budget). And under double what the US contributed to the Tsunami relief fund earlier this year.

The final Tsunami death toll, from what I could find out, was around 220, 000. According to Make Poverty History, every single day, 30,000 children are dying as a result of extreme poverty. Which is 210, 000 every week.

"The US has also refused to agree to give 0.7% of its national income in international aid, a long-term commitment Mr Blair wants from all G8 countries."

I'm disgusted.