UN chief urges support for Haiti to avert ‘humanitarian disaster’

(United Nations News) UN Secretary-General António Guterres on Tuesday urged countries to step up support to Haiti as the country recovers from a deadly earthquake under the clouds of a tropical storm.  

The 7.2 magnitude quake struck southwestern Haiti on Saturday morning, killing more than 1,300 people. Thousands of homes, as well as hospitals, schools, churches, bridges and roads, were either damaged or destroyed. 

A UN team on the ground is working with the authorities to help ensure humanitarian aid and personnel can reach people in need.  

“As assessments reveal the level of suffering, the scale of humanitarian need in Haiti continues to grow,” Mr. Guterres said in a statement.  “I call on all Member States to mobilize efforts to support Haiti in averting a humanitarian disaster.” 

The Secretary-General outlined UN action so far, noting that his deputy, Amina Mohammed, on Monday expressed support directly to Prime Minister Ariel Henry.

Read more at: United Nations News

Source: CARICOM TODAY