UNICEF has welcomed the support from the Australian government’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade to transport supplies to Fiji and Vanuatu to support children and their families in urgent need in the aftermath of Severe Tropical Cyclone Harold.

According to UNICEF, this assistance is being delivered to the Pacific island countries according to their specific response needs from its warehouse based in Australia, supported by the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

Amid COVID-19 challenges, including border closures and travel restrictions, it stated the Australian Defence Force had provided support to airlift more than 25 metric tonnes of emergency response materials on four flights to Vanuatu and Fiji – two of the countries hardest hit by TC Harold which struck on April 6, 2020.

It stated that the emergency response materials included tents to provide temporary learning spaces or to be used as temporary clinics, as well as tarpaulins to be used as shelters.

It added dignity kits that included items such as soap, torches, sanitary products, and water buckets would also help to ensure children had access to clean water and hygiene.

“Addressing the emergency needs of children in the aftermath of a category five cyclone in the midst of a global pandemic is no easy task,” said Sheldon Yett, UNICEF Representative to the Pacific.

“We greatly appreciate the support provided by the Australian government in helping children and families to rebuild their lives,” he added.