July 16, 2010
Proactive testing to prevent spread of malaria in Indonesia
UNICEF is conducting blood tests in 14 Indonesian villages to proactively identify and treat carriers of the malaria parasite. Rather than testing only individuals showing symptoms of the disease, universal testing ensures that no potential carrier is missed. Distribution of bed nets has substantially reduced the occurrence of the disease in Indonesia, and universal blood tests will help bring it closer to elimination.
July 15, 2010
UNICEF organizes "second-chance" examination for students in Darfur
Recent violence, displacement and insecurity prevented eigth-grade students in South Darfur from taking the exam marking completion of their primary education. UNICEF and the Ministry of Education organized a second exam to allow thoses students to continue their education. 304 students, including 48 girls, took the test in May. Another 255 students could not attend the examination due to a lack of transportation but plans are underway to address their needs as well.
July 14, 2010
Providing a safe place to give birth in Afghanistan
Mothers in the rural provinces of Afghanistan, where up to 98 percent of all births take place at home, need a safe place to give birth. Maternity Waiting Homes provide access to skilled care and maternal health services in a home-like environment. The UNICEF-supported Waiting Homes are part of a larger effort to reduce maternal mortality rates in Afghanistan, which suffers from one of world's highest rates of maternal death.
July 12, 2010
Six months after the earthquake, UNICEF takes stock in Haiti
Six months after the earthquake that ravaged Haiti on January 12, UNICEF releases a detailed report chronicling relief efforts to date. Titled ‘Children of Haiti: Milestones and looking forward at six months,’ the report begins by asking the question: What did not happen following the earthquake?
July 10, 2010
Child-protection centers provide a second chance for children in Gabon
Angondjé is one of four child-protection centers supported by UNICEF in Gabon that provide shelter, education, health care and psycho-social support to children who are victims of child trafficking and abuse. The United Nations Secretary General Ban Ki-moon on a recent visit to Angondjé highlighted the importance of the centers in protecting children and eventually helping them reunite with their families.
