United Nations relief agencies are distributing aid and are working to protect the most vulnerable migrants in South Africa, which has experienced days of violent and xenophobic attacks against foreigners.
The UN High Commissioner for Refugees has now distributed 4,000 blankets and 2,000 sleeping mats through its local partners in the country, the world body said in a press release on Thursday.
The UN World Health Organization has sent nearly 1,000 hygiene kits to the South African Red Cross for distribution, and the UN Children's Fund (UNICEF) has delivered emergency food, clothing and blankets to victims of the violence, most of whom fled their homes with few or no possessions.
The Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs is coordinating the UN humanitarian response in support of the South African government.
UNICEF estimated that at least 17,000 people have been displaced in Gauteng province alone, including at least 6,000 children and women, after attacks broke out against foreigners, including migrant workers.
Xenophobic attacks broke out in South Africa early this month, displacing a large number of foreigners and leaving at least 56 people dead so far.
The South African government and the international community have condemned the attacks which have been described as barbaric and senseless.
Source:Xinhua
|
Comment
Tell A Friend
Print Format
Save Article