Comoros gets help from UN agencies to deal with volcanic eruption
United Nations agencies are helping the Government of the Indian Ocean archipelago of the Comoros to cope with a volcanic eruption that has forced up to 10,000 people to flee their homes.
United Nations agencies are helping the Government of the Indian Ocean archipelago of the Comoros to cope with a volcanic eruption that has forced up to 10,000 people to flee their homes.
The UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has made personnel available to strengthen the coordination of relief operations, and has purchased 10 tons of rice for the displaced people. It is also preparing to provide further aid, such as non-food items, essential drugs and education materials. Other UN agencies have provided four vehicles in support of Government’s activities.
The Karthala Volcano, one of the largest in activity in the world, forms most of the landmass of Grande Comore, also called Ngazidja, the main island of the Union of the Comoros. Over the last 200 years, it has erupted on average every 11 years.
The majority of those fleeing from their villages are seeking refuge among family members in other parts of the island. As of yesterday, the authorities have not requested any additional external assistance.