Conflict in Yemen Enters 10th Year with Dire Humanitarian Crisis
The conflict in Yemen has reached its 10th year, with over half of the country’s population in desperate need of aid, according to UN humanitarians. The situation is dire, with almost 18 million people requiring medical assistance, half of whom are children.
Health Crisis in Yemen
- Nearly 2.4 million children in Yemen suffer from moderate to severe stunting.
- WHO Regional Director for the Eastern Mediterranean, Dr. Hanan Balkhy, emphasizes the importance of not normalizing issues like hungry children and hospitals shutting down.
Vulnerability and Decline in Support
The fighting between the internationally recognized government in Aden and Houthi rebels has led to a decline in international support, leaving communities vulnerable to worsening conditions, including the impact of climate change.
Last year, natural shocks, such as heavy rains and flash-flooding, caused new displacement in Yemen. Currently, about 4.5 million individuals are internally displaced, with women and children being the most affected.
UN Health Assistance and Funding
Funding for WHO activities in Yemen has decreased by 45% in the last five years. The UN agency now requires $77 million to provide essential health assistance. WHO supports 96 therapeutic feeding centers and provides nutrition screening services in over 270 districts, achieving a 96% cure rate.
Cholera Outbreak in Somalia Raises Concerns
In Somalia, a deadly cholera outbreak has claimed the lives of nine people in the past week and over 50 in recent months. The UN aid teams warn of the rapid spread of the preventable disease, especially with the upcoming Gu rains.
Cholera Cases and Response
- The Somali capital, Mogadishu, has seen a spike in cholera cases, with three times more infections reported in 2024 compared to the last three years.
- The outbreak is driven by malnutrition, poor access to clean water, and open defecation.
Aid Efforts and Vaccination
As part of the response, 1.4 million cholera vaccine doses have been approved, and over 100 cholera kits are prepositioned across the country to treat patients.
UN Relief Chief Steps Down for Health Reasons
Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs, Martin Griffiths, announced his decision to step down from his role due to health reasons. He will ensure a smooth transition until the end of June.
Leadership and Advocacy
Mr. Griffiths has been praised for his leadership and advocacy for those affected by crises, mobilizing resources to address their needs.
Insecurity and Violence Disrupt Aid Operations in Haiti
Violence and insecurity continue to disrupt aid operations in Port-au-Prince, Haiti. Less than half of the health facilities in the capital are functioning at normal capacity, hindering relief efforts.
Challenges in Haiti
- Rampant gang activity and human rights abuses have affected healthcare relief operations.
- WHO is supporting the Ministry of Health and local partners with essential supplies and logistics.
Humanitarian Support in Haiti
UN agencies like UNICEF and WFP are providing support, including hot meals to displaced people and psychosocial assistance to those impacted by the crisis.
