UNICEF said on Monday it was appealing for a record high $2.5 billion in emergency funding to respond to the needs of 39 million children with life-saving assistance in the Middle East and North Africa in 2021.
This includes an increase of nearly $500 million to continue responding to the COVID-19 pandemic amid a surge in cases across the region, it said.
“The region is home to the highest number of children in need in the world,” said Ted Chaiban, UNICEF Regional Director in the Middle East and North Africa.
“This appeal aims to reach children with critical humanitarian assistance and continue responding to the massive needs emerging as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic,” he added.
The largest portion of funds requested in UNICEF’s appeal will be mobilized to support children’s education. This is followed by water, sanitation, health and nutrition and pyscho-social support to address mental health.
