Governor Buni Directs Strategic Response to Evolving Humanitarian Needs
Yobe State Emergency Management Agency and Save The Children International Launch Comprehensive Short-Term Support for Mafa Victims
In response to the evolving humanitarian crisis, His Excellency Governor Mai Mala Buni has directed a strategic response, including assessing the feasibility of relocating the displaced Mafa community. The Yobe State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), in partnership with Save The Children International, has launched a comprehensive short-term support program to provide immediate relief to the affected households in Mafa, Tarmuwa Local Government Area, following the devastating attack on September 1, 2024.
Key Support Interventions:
Multipurpose Cash Assistance: Save The Children International will provide multipurpose cash assistance of NGN 70,000 per household for three months (September, October, and November). This support is designed to help families meet their essential needs as they recover from the tragedy.
Provision of WASH and NFI Kits: Affected households will receive Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) kits and other Non-Food Items (NFIs). These kits will be distributed as a one-time intervention, along with hygiene promotion activities to help prevent disease outbreaks in the community.
Protection and Psychosocial Support: A comprehensive protection program will be implemented to assist survivors. This includes case finding and management for vulnerable individuals, particularly women and children, as well as psychosocial support services to help them cope with the trauma.
Medical Support: SEMA’s medical team is currently supporting the Primary Healthcare Center (PHC) in Babban Gida, where many victims are receiving treatment. In addition to managing the high caseload, they are also providing essential drugs to those in need.
Nutrition Screening for Children: The nutrition team is actively screening children for malnutrition to ensure early detection and intervention for those at risk. Malnourished children will receive necessary treatment and nutritional supplements to promote their recovery.
Collaboration for Recovery: The partnership between the Yobe State Government, through SEMA, and Save The Children International underscores the state’s commitment under the leadership of Governor Mai Mala Buni to addressing the urgent needs of Mafa’s victims. This joint effort will not only provide immediate relief but also lay the groundwork for the longer-term recovery and rehabilitation of the affected population.
SEMA is currently analyzing a Rapid Need Assessment conducted jointly with support from partners through UN OCHA. The agency has also met with Mafa stakeholders to discuss the ongoing response and future plans.
This comprehensive support initiative highlights the dedication of the Yobe State Government and its partners to provide timely and effective assistance to those in need, ensuring that the affected communities receive the necessary resources to rebuild and recover.