The devastating landslides in Papua New Guinea are particularly affecting the youngest: over 40 percent of those affected are children under the age of 16. UNICEF is therefore intensifying its aid measures.
UNICEF is intensifying its emergency response in the wake of last Friday’s catastrophic landslide in Enga Province, Papua New Guinea (PNG), which killed hundreds of people, which destroyed critical infrastructure and left thousands homeless.
Search and recovery efforts are being led by the PNG Defence Force under extremely challenging conditions, with the terrain still unstable and damaged roads restricting access to the disaster zone.
“We are working closely with Papua New Guinean authorities and community organisations to provide vital support to the survivors of this terrible disaster,” said UNICEF Representative Angela Kearney. “It’s now clear that over 40 per cent of those impacted are children under the age of 16 who have been deeply traumatised by the loss of their families, homes, and livelihoods.”
In an initial response, UNICEF has distributed a quantity of hygiene and dignity kits, containing buckets, jerrycans and soap as well as reusable sanitary pads, multipurpose cloth and other items which had been prepositioned with the local Provincial Health Authority.
UNICEF has been part of rapid assessments to establish the broader WASH, education, child protection, health, and nutrition needs of the affected communities. Meanwhile, evacuation centres, supported by local authorities and the PNG Defence Force, are providing essential services and support to those displaced.
With your donation to the emergency relief fund, you will ensure prompt provision of supplies and will therefore help to save children’s lives in cases of disaster such as the present situation in Bangladesh.