Embassy of Ireland announces €250,000 support for Viet Nam

Ambassador of Ireland to Viet Nam Deirdre Ní Fhallúin said Ireland is committed to supporting Viet Nam during this time of great need.

"Our contribution of €250,000 reflects our solidarity with the people of Viet Nam and our commitment to addressing the most urgent needs of those affected," the Ambassador added.

By working with UNICEF, the Embassy expected that the support reaches the most vulnerable—particularly children—by providing access to clean water and sanitation, which are crucial for preventing disease and safeguarding health.

UNICEF Representative in Viet Nam Silvia Danailov acknowledged the Embassy of Ireland's contribution. "When emergencies hit, children are the most affected and they are our first priority," she added.

Through the support of the Embassy of Ireland, UNICEF will be able to provide clean water and sanitation to the most affected families to help them cope with the effects of the flooding.

This contribution is part of Ireland's longstanding commitment to humanitarian aid and disaster response, further strengthening the partnership between Ireland and Viet Nam. 

Super Typhoon Yagi barrelled into northern Viet Nam on September 7, 2024, causing widespread damage to infrastructure, homes, schools and water systems across 26 provinces.

Nearly 19 million people, including 5.5 million children, live in areas affected by the powerful storm.

On September 12, the organization urgently dispatched 80,000 water purification tablets for the Centre of Disease Control in Thai Nguyen province, and 4,000 liters of water to Lao Cai Provincial Hospital to ensure drinking water supply for 800 people.

On September 17, the fund handed over 456 plastic water storage tanks to seven impoverished districts in the northeastern mountainous province of Cao Bang, one of the localities worst impacted by Typhoon Yagi and subsequent flooding and landslides.

UNICEF is mobilizing resources to ensure emergency aid is urgently provided. An initial US$11 million appeal is urgently required to be able to deliver on its mandate to assist the most vulnerable children.

As of September 16, 20 foreign countries and organizations had committed or planned to provide over US$22 million in aid, along with equipment for shelters, clean water, sanitation, and more for Viet Nam to overcome consequences of the typhoon./.