UNICEF Ready to Support Flood-Affected Fijians.

SUVA, 18 December 2009 – The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) is focusing on ensuring support to people living in informal settlements in the Rewa River Delta region, to the east of the capital Suva.

UNICEF estimates that at least 17,500 people in the area were affected by severe flooding causing extensive damage in housing areas and to water mains and supplies.

Three days after category 2 Cyclone Mick hit major islands of the Fiji Islands group, the affected population still does not have access to safe drinking water and proper sanitation.

“We are concerned about the safety and health of children. UNICEF is prepared to face the issues that could arise and is ready to mobilise the resources needed to ensure that the water, health and nutrition needs of affected children and families are met,” said UNICEF Pacific Representative, Dr. Isiye Ndombi.

UNICEF stands ready to distribute “Emergency Hands” –communication materials promoting key sanitation and hygiene behaviours, posters promoting hand washing and breastfeeding, collapsible water containers and water purification tablets at the request of the Government.

ENDS

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