WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman John Garamendi (D-Fairfield, CA), a Returned Peace Corps Volunteer in Ethiopia who has been active in African affairs for decades, today mourns the passing of Congressman Donald Payne. He issued the following statement:

"Congressman Payne was a friend and statesman who dedicated his life to human rights and international cooperation, especially in Africa. The former Chairman of the Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on Africa, Global Health and Human Rights, Representative Payne worked tirelessly for peace and dignity in Somalia, Sudan, Rwanda, Northern Ireland, Haiti, and many points in between.

"As Returned Peace Corps Volunteers who served in Ethiopia, my wife Patti and I have dedicated much of our lives to helping people in the Horn of Africa. We’ve worked to end wars, eradicate poverty, and encourage development. In this capacity, we knew Congressman Payne to be a fierce champion for Africa long before I ever entered the Halls of Congress. The world has lost a great leader. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family."