Ulaanbaatar
Australia to Support Mongolia in Dzud Relief Efforts
Society
Ulaanbaatar, February 29, 2024. /MONTSAME/. Australia will provide
250,000 Australian dollars in humanitarian assistance following the adverse humanitarian
situation caused by unprecedented and extreme dzud weather conditions in
Mongolia.
Mongolia
is currently experiencing a high dzud risk, cold weather is predicted to
persist in the coming weeks, exacerbating the situation, affecting 245,005
families across the country, according to the International Federation of Red
Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC).
"As
a committed third neighbour and steadfast friend, Australia will continue to work
together with Mongolia to foster resilience and confront increasing natural
disasters exacerbated by climate change.” said Ms Katie Smith, Australian
Ambassador to Mongolia. “Our thoughts are with all those who have been impacted
by the dzud. Our two countries have a history of helping one another during
difficult times and Mongolia’s generosity during those times has not been
forgotten in Australia.”
Australia will channel its assistance through the Mongolian Red Cross Society (MRCS) to provide cash support, hay and fodder, fuel, and food support for vulnerable herder households. MRCS will continue to provide cash transfers to assist households as they manage the ongoing impacts of the dzud. At the same time MRCS will support NEMA and other authorities with impact assessments to ensure the effectiveness of this support. The health and well-being support for children, pregnant and lactating women, and prevention of gender-based violence are important priorities in the relief efforts.
