UNICEF Pacific says it is ready to respond and ensure the survival and protection of children in the aftermath of the severe tropical cyclone Lola which made landfall in Vanuatu yesterday.
In a press statement, UNICEF said Lola was the third cyclone to have impacted Vanuatu this year and came just months after the devastating twin cyclones Judy and Kevin in March.
UNICEF Pacific said it was working closely with the Vanuatu National Disaster Management Office and their warehouse in Vanuatu was stocked with essential emergency supplies ready for immediate distribution as needed. These include tents, hygiene kits and school-in-a-box materials sufficient for 5000 people.
“Natural disasters increase the vulnerability of children and leave a lasting impact. We need to act fast, and to sustain efforts in the long run” said UNICEF Vanuatu Chief of Field Office Eric Durpaire. “The increased frequency of severe cyclones throughout the country directly impacts the present as well as the future of these children.”
TCs Judy and Kevin in March damaged 390 school buildings which impacted the learning of over 75,000 children. While UNICEF and partners responded within 48 hours of the twin cyclones, severe tropical cyclone Lola has placed additional stress on the recovery efforts following Judy and Kevin and the bigger category 5 cyclone Harold three years ago.
UNICEF said with many more cyclones predicted in the coming months due to El Nino, children continue to be disproportionately affected by the worsening climate crisis. UNICEF called for strong investments in climate resilient services, including schools and health facilities, to scale-up existing programmes and address the catastrophe left behind by the disaster.
