Maiduguri – The International Organization for Migration (IOM) and its partner Smiling Hearts Initiative International (SHI) have launched an emergency shelter assistance for 601 families affected by the recent devastating fire that occurred at Muna Primary School in Dusuman Ward, Jere Local Government Area. 

The fire, which engulfed 90% of the camp, claimed the lives of two people, and destroyed homes and small shops, leaving nearly 3,000 internally displaced persons homeless. The affected population, which includes women, children, and the elderly, are currently residing with friends, relatives, or in makeshift shelters within the camp. 

The emergency response will be coordinated with local authorities and partners including State and Local emergency management authorities to assess further needs and deliver comprehensive assistance. 

The emergency response is activated through IOM’s Rapid Response Fund, a grants mechanism that provides funding to Local organizations to conduct lifesaving projects addressing external shocks resulting from natural and/or human-made disasters. 

“The fire at Muda Primary School was a tragic occurrence and our priority, thanks to the RRF, is to act swiftly to ensure those who have been affected receive the support they need to rebuild their lives”, said John Anisa, Project Manager for the Rapid Response Fund.  

IOM’s Rapid Response Fund is supported by USAID’s Bureau for Humanitarian Assistance (BHA). Since its launch, it has disbursed USD over USD 250,000 as well as in-kind shelter, non-food items, water, sanitation, and hygiene supplies benefitting 37 720 people so far. For more information, visit https://nigeria.iom.int/rapid-response-fund.  

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For more information, please contact Francois-Xavier Ada, Public Information Officer. Email: fadaaffana@iom.int.