An estimated 40,000 children impacted in the aftermath of a devastating earthquake in Vanuatu
PORT VILA, Vanuatu, 18 December 2024 – An estimated 40,000 children are in need of humanitarian assistance after a devastating 7.3 magnitude earthquake hit Vanuatu on December 17, followed by several major aftershocks.
According to authorities, 14 deaths have so far been reported, with over 200 injured. UNICEF has already dispatched community first aid kits, Interagency Emergency Health Kits (IEHK) and tents to support continuity of essential health services. UNICEF is also providing safe water to healthcare facilities.
Many buildings, including hospitals, have sustained damages. With landslides across the island, key roads and bridges connecting the airport and the main seaport are also reported to be severely damaged. Additionally, telecommunication networks in most areas are either down or intermittent.
“The immediate priority is to reach children and families with the life-saving support they need. UNICEF is on the ground, working with government, civil society organizations and other development partners to support the response efforts,” said UNICEF Pacific’s Chief of Vanuatu Field Office, Eric Durpaire.
As needs are confirmed, UNICEF will continue to support children and families with life-saving interventions that include restoring water supply and distribution of critical supplies and mobilizing partners to provide access to safe water and hygiene, nutrition and health services, education, child protection and social protection.
###
Notes to editors:
Download multimedia content here.
For more information, please contact:
UNICEF UK Press Office, [email protected], +44 207 375 6030
About UNICEF:
UNICEF works in some of the world’s toughest places, to reach the world’s most disadvantaged children. Across more than 190 countries and territories, we work for every child, everywhere, to build a better world for everyone.
The UK Committee for UNICEF (UNICEF UK) raises funds for UNICEF’s emergency and development work for children. We also promote and protect children’s rights in the UK and internationally. We are a UK charity, entirely funded by supporters.
United Kingdom Committee for UNICEF (UNICEF UK), Registered Charity No. 1072612 (England & Wales), SC043677 (Scotland).
For more information visit unicef.org.uk. Follow UNICEF UK on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook and YouTube.