Mudslides in Sierra Leone: Switzerland provides CHF 400,000 in emergency funding
Bern, 18.08.2017 - Devastating mudslides have hit Sierra Leone, burying many homes in the capital Freetown. Switzerland is providing CHF 400,000 to support relief operations and to combat the spread of diseases such as cholera.
The authorities in Sierra Leone have declared a state of emergency following floods and mudslides that have ravaged several parts of the capital Freetown. Many people have lost their lives and hundreds more remain missing. Thousands of people have been left homeless. The authorities are currently coordinating relief efforts, supported by a large number of national and international organisations in the country.
Swiss Humanitarian Aid has released CHF 400,000 francs to support the activities of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies and the Sierra Leone Red Cross Society. Aid efforts are directed at helping survivors who have lost everything by providing shelter and basic necessities (hygiene kits, primary healthcare kits). Work is also being done to stave off diseases such as cholera by taking the necessary measures in the areas of water, sanitation and health. The current situation is highly conducive to the transmission of disease.
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