Kuwait Fund and UK Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office Partner to Aid Children

In response to the urgent humanitarian needs of children and families in Yemen and Gaza, the Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development (Kuwait Fund) and the UK's Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) have committed a combined US$6 million in funding. Each organization will contribute $3 million to support UNICEF’s efforts in two critical areas: restoring water supply and sanitation systems in Gaza and sustaining primary healthcare services in Yemen.

Critical Water Supply Support for Gaza

The ongoing conflict in the Gaza Strip has led to a severe crisis in water and sanitation services, affecting more than 2.2 million people. With over 70% of the region’s water and sewage infrastructure either partially or completely destroyed, substantial reconstruction and rehabilitation efforts are required to restore access to clean drinking water for children and their families. The absence of proper sanitation services has also heightened the risk of disease outbreaks, further straining Gaza’s already overwhelmed healthcare system.

Through the partnership with Kuwait Fund and the FCDO, UNICEF will work to ensure water access for conflict-affected families in Gaza. This initiative aims to reach 500,000 people, including approximately 250,000 children, providing them with safe drinking water and improved sanitation. The support will focus on repairing and maintaining critical water distribution networks, wastewater systems, and sewerage infrastructure.

Yemen’s Healthcare System on the Brink of Collapse

Yemen continues to face a devastating humanitarian crisis, with more than 18.2 million people, including 9.8 million children, in desperate need of assistance. The healthcare system in Yemen is teetering on the edge of collapse, exacerbated by severe shortages of essential supplies, medical staff, and international aid. In response, UNICEF is currently supporting 3,200 primary healthcare centers across the country, which provide life-saving services to 65% of Yemen's population. These centers offer an equitable, inclusive, and cost-effective means of delivering crucial health and well-being services to children and their families.

With the funding provided by Kuwait Fund and the FCDO, UNICEF will ensure the continued operation of 290 primary healthcare centers. The support will focus on rehabilitating infrastructure, supplying necessary medicines and medical equipment, including routine vaccinations, and providing essential cleaning and hygiene materials. Additionally, the funds will cover electricity and water costs, keeping these vital centers operational during a time of unprecedented need.