UNICEF thanks The State of Kuwait for its continuous and exemplary generous support to children in the Middle East

Recent donation of 59 million US$ to Yemen

AMMAN, 16 July 2018 – UNICEF welcomes the latest contribution of US$59 million from The State of Kuwait to support the most vulnerable children throughout Yemen affected by chronic underdevelopment and a brutal conflict.

“The State of Kuwait has once again proven to be a friend for children of the Middle East and North Africa Region and committed to the principles of good partnership. Over the years, Kuwait has generously contributed to UNICEF´s work for children including in Syria and Iraq. Its generosity is truly exemplary, in line with commitments made” said Geert Cappelaere, UNICEF Regional Director for the Middle East and North Africa.

Since 2013, The State of Kuwait has contributed over US$200 million, making it one of UNICEF´s largest donors to our work for children in the Middle East and North-Africa region.

This recent generous contribution from Kuwait is unconditional. UNICEF will use it to reach vulnerable children in need across Yemen where the needs are most dire including to prevent diseases like cholera and support children getting education, water and sanitation, nutrition and protection services.

As a result of the conflict in Yemen, more than half a million children were forced to leave school bringing the total number of children out of school to nearly 2 million. Last year, Yemen has witnessed the largest outbreak of cholera and acute watery diarrhoea with nearly 1 million suspected cases.

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UNICEF promotes the rights and wellbeing of every child, in everything we do. Together with our partners, we work in 190 countries and territories to translate that commitment into practical action, focusing special effort on reaching the most vulnerable and excluded children, to the benefit of all children, everywhere.