Haiti’s Healthcare Under Siege Amid Turmoil
The UN Humanitarian Coordination Office (OCHA) has raised alarm over the escalating attacks on hospitals by armed gangs in Haiti’s capital.
These violent incidents have led to the looting of healthcare facilities, exacerbating an already precarious situation. Two healthcare centers in Port-au-Prince were recently forced to close, while others remain shuttered due to rising violence. La Paix University Hospital stands as the sole operational facility, but it grapples with overwhelming demand for services.
The Delmas 18 Hospital and Saint Martin Health Centre fell victim to looters on March 26 and 27.
The UN-administered Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO) is providing essential supplies, including medicines and fuel, to sustain critical services. However, the situation remains dire, with armed groups also targeting and raiding pharmacies, severely limiting public access to medications.
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In Sudan, the ongoing war has significantly hindered the World Health Organization’s (WHO) ability to access and deliver essential emergency medical supplies to conflict-affected regions. Responding to critical civilian needs, WHO country teams collaborated with neighboring South Sudan to address the crisis. Leveraging logistic expertise and available resources, emergency health kits were prepositioned along the Sudan-South Sudan border. This strategic move ensures timely and effective assistance to approximately 830,000 people in the Blue Nile and Nuba Mountain areas over the next three months.
The joint effort between WHO offices exemplifies cross-border collaboration, emphasizing their commitment to alleviating suffering in conflict zones. Notably, this shipment marks the second delivery across the border since the outbreak of brutal conflict between rival militaries nearly a year ago. WHO’s continuous relief efforts remain steadfast in supporting the Sudanese people during this challenging time.
