PEOPLE living in warzones are at risk of being the very last in the world to have access to Covid-19 vaccines. Of the 25 countries with the lowest vaccination rates in the world today, more than half of them are embroiled in armed conflict and violence.
The ICRC, therefore, is working urgently to get vaccines in the arms of some of the most vulnerable populations, working with International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement partners around the world to support Covid-19 vaccination in armed conflicts.
In the Philippines, it has been supporting the efforts of the Philippine Red Cross, to vaccinate more people especially in Mindanao, where vaccination rates are lower due to logistical and economic reasons or due to hesitancy.
Thanks to the PRC’s Bakuna (Vaccine) Bus and its dedicated team, residents of a remote village in Iligan City and daily workers of Zamboanga City were able to get their jabs. As the Bakuna Bus continues its journey, the ICRC will support various local health ministries in Mindanao in the coming months to ensure that more vaccines will reach far-flung areas.
Meanwhile, ICRC’s microeconomic initiatives are helping conflict-affected people across Mindanao to rebuild their lives in a sustainable manner.
The cash grants have helped farmers in Maguindanao whose livelihoods were impacted by displacement; residents of Marawi and Zamboanga who lost their breadwinners to the conflict; as well as persons with disabilities, to start or expand income-generating activities of their choice.
Their stories prove that with hard work, the support of friends and family, and a little help, previously vulnerable people can find their footing. (ICRC-PH)
