News from the Field
August 30, 2012
With Cholera Cases on the Increase Worldwide, UNICEF Develops a Cholera Toolkit
Cholera is a significant public health priority currently making headlines. With increasing numbers of cases reported, burgeoning frequency of protracted outbreaks, emergence of more virulent strains, growing numbers of people living in unsanitary conditions, and the impact of climate change, cholera trends are of alarming concern. To address these trends, employees from UNICEF offices came together in Zimbabwe in August. Joined by other cholera experts, they shared their expertise for the development of a comprehensive UNICEF Cholera Toolkit.
August 29, 2012
Recovering Education System in Zimbabwe Gives Children a Second Chance at an Education
As Zimbabwe underwent over a decade of economic and political instability, many children had to work to supplement their family’s income instead of going to school. Following the formation of the Inclusive Government of Zimbabwe in 2009 and the collective efforts of UNICEF and numerous local and international partners, the education sector is on the road to recovery. UNICEF-supported programs include supplying children with textbooks and braille books, building child-friendly schools, and providing access to quality education for all children.
August 28, 2012
Rwanda Moves to Close Down Children’s Institutions and Improve Its Childcare System
Rwanda is undergoing a radical transformation as the country works to heal from its past conflict and move forward as a cohesive society. The government has an ambitious plan—supported by UNICEF—to close all of Rwanda's 34 children’s institutions and find new homes for the 3,153 orphans living in them. Rwanda also wants to deepen family solidarity so no more children are abandoned. The government is training social workers to create networks to help identify children likely to be abandoned and find options for those with no extended family.
August 24, 2012
UNICEF Provides Water to Those Battling Dust Storms and the Desert Sun
More than 7,000 Syrians are now staying at the Za’atari refugee camp in Jordan. Conditions are harsh, and ensuring families have access to water can be a difficult job in the middle of the desert and in one of the most water-scarce countries in the world. UNICEF and partners are providing drinking water, hygiene, and sanitation for the entire camp. UNICEF uses trucks to bring water into Za’atari daily and plans to drill a well. But drilling is costly and the demand on water continues to increase as more families arrive at the camp daily.
August 22, 2012
In Ethiopia, More HIV-Positive Mothers Deliver Babies Free of the Virus
UNICEF is supporting the Ethiopian government’s accelerated plan to prevent mother-to-child transmission of HIV. When a pregnant woman comes to a health center that is part of this program, she will automatically get tested for HIV. If necessary, she—and her newborn—will receive prophylactic medicine. These interventions, free of charge, should ensure that a baby does not contract HIV from an infected mother. The health centers also have ‘mother-to-mother support groups’ that provide counseling services for mothers discovering their status.
