Health, Water and Sanitation
Electricity and water supplies can be scarce and sporadic in the Chechen Republic, creating conditions ripe for the spread of disease.
- Health Projects targeting: 350,000 children and mothers in Chechnya and Ingushetia
- Safe Water provision: 117,000 people in Chechnya
- Youth Health Services: 75,000 people in Chechnya and Ingushetia
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Supplying safe drinking water
For some six years, supplying safe drinking water each day to residents of Grozny was UNICEF's most urgent activity in the republic. Every day, UNICEF worked with other organisations to transport about 600,000 litres of potable water to meet the needs of about 117,000 people. From 2007, the programme focus is on training and equipping the public water providers.
Hygiene education
Information is provided to children and mothers on how hygiene can prevent the spread of disease. With assistance from local authorities and NGOs, UNICEF reaches out to the local population through TV programming, colourful pocket calendars, and interactive theatre projects.
Immunisation
With the republic's health infrastructure in a weak condition, the threat of infectious diseases is high. UNICEF is working with local health officials to install cold chain equipment in district hospitals for the storage of vaccines against polio, TB, measles, hepatitis B, pertussis, rubella, and diphtheria. UNICEF works closely with the local media and advocates on immunisation among the local community. In addition, specific training is provided to vaccination workers.
Empowering mothers
UNICEF helps give women greater access to medical and health information and hence, the opportunity to make more informed decisions and to take control of their lives. At designated centres and hospitals, mothers receive information on medical and social issues, as well as available services.
Youth friendly services
Existing health services do not always cater well to the needs of adolescents. Many young people are steeped in a traditional culture but grappling to make sense of life in the modern world. UNICEF has opened six information and health centres in Chechnya and Ingushetia where youth can learn more about reproductive issues, HIV/AIDS awareness and healthy lifestyles.
