As Ivory Coast begins to recover from post-election violence, some $300 million is urgently required to address the humanitarian consequences of the political crisis, the United Nations humanitarian chief estimates.
Despite the arrest of former leader Laurent Gbagbo, the humanitarian situation in Ivory Coast remains “deeply troubling,” Valerie Amos told the U.N. Security Council on Wednesday (April 13).
“The crisis that followed elections last November and the escalation we have seen in the last few weeks has had far-reaching humanitarian consequences for ordinary people throughout Côte d’Ivoire, and its neighbouring countries,” Amos said.
“These effects will not subside without a significant and sustained effort from the humanitarian community, and the combined efforts of the broader UN system in Côte d’Ivoire contributing to stabilisation and reconciliation,” she added.
The U.N. estimates that some 70,000 people have been displaced within Ivory Coast, while more than 1 million Ivorians have fled to Liberia to escape the violence.
Only 15 percent, or $57 million, has so far been committed out of the $300 million request, Amos said, calling for swift humanitarian response in Ivory Coast.
Aid group Oxfam also urged funding to “match the escalating needs” in the African nation. Oxfam has launched a $16 million appeal for Ivory Coast.
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