Throughout 2016 and into 2017, northern Nigeria has been facing an impending famine due to insurgent violence led by Boko Haram, an extremist group that targets civilians in the region. E-Gap remains concerned how the increasing shortage of food will impact the community, especially children who are more vulnerable to malnutrition.
According to the United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF) an estimated 450,000 children will suffer from severe acute malnutrition this year. While aid organizations have made significant inroads in reducing malnutrition amongst children, many areas remain inaccessible due to the ongoing insecurity.
As part of its mission to serve vulnerable populations in conflict zones, E-Gap has partnered with the International Coalition for the Eradication of Hunger and Abuse (ICEHA) to support internally displaced persons due to the violence in Nigeria. The coalition has provided over 3 tons of clothing, and educational supplies, periodic food donations, scholarships, and general support.
E-Gap’s primary contributions include strategic guidance, providing educational resources, and as part of its 3,000 Teachers Program, training for volunteers and educators. In addition, E-Gap works with ICEHA’s Healing Through Art Program to help children heal the emotional wounds from war. E-Gap is currently developing a curriculum to train 65 volunteers how to diagnose and begin treating children afflicted with PTSD and other emotional disorders.
E-Gap will continue to provide support to teachers and students in Nigeria struggling with the effects of war. It is the organization’s hope, that through partnerships with coalitions like ICEHA, significant improvement will be seen in the health and futures of those in Nigeria.
Photo Credit: International Coalition for the Eradication of Hunger and Abuse
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