Strong communities
UNICEF supported “community conversations” in the aftermath of the tsunami in 2005 revealed that women’s economic activities such as farming and fish processing, all of which yields a household income and provides food for the household, were severely disrupted after the disaster. The conversations underscored the women’s vulnerability due to their lack of influence and lower decision-making powers and control over their lives. Working with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and a local NGO, EMPOWER, UNICEF mobilised, empowered and strengthened the lives of 100 women directly affected by the tsunami by providing them with leadership and gender awareness training as well as equipping them with marketing and economic skills. In addition, EMPOWER also organised age-appropriate activities for child and youth survivors. These activities, which enhance youth leadership and communication skills, will continue into 2006 to help children cope with post-recovery needs.
Newsline 23 December 2006: 20 December 2005: 21 June 2005: 21 March 2005: |
