UK helps southern Sudan's battle with malaria

The UK is helping southern Sudan to combat the dangers of malaria, a politician has claimed.

Gareth Thomas, international development minister, said during a visit to the country that funding from Britain is allowing people in Southern Sudan to have access to vital items such as bed nets.

Mr Thomas commented that it is "shocking and unacceptable" that malaria is the biggest killer of children in the African country.

He said: "Thanks to the support of the British public we are winning the fight against this deadly disease. By next year, every family will be able to sleep under a bed net - an achievement we can be proud of."

The UK has contributed £4 million during the last three years through a net distribution campaign, with more than six million of these being delivered to people in southern Sudan.

Last week, it was revealed that US TV show Ugly Betty is set to support the new United Nations Nothing But Nets scheme.

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