UNICEF has mobilized emergency relief efforts to assist families and children affected by the devastating magnitude-6.8 earthquake that struck Dingri County in Tibet’s Xizang Autonomous Region on January 7, 2025. The disaster, which also impacted nearby Sajia County, caused over 126 fatalities, injured 188 individuals, and displaced more than 30,000 people into temporary shelters.
Amid freezing nighttime temperatures plunging to -17°C, over 10,000 children under the age of seven are enduring severe challenges in makeshift shelters. Pregnant women and infants face heightened vulnerabilities in such conditions. UNICEF Representative to China, Amakobe Sande, underscored the critical need for targeted support:
“Children and pregnant women have specific needs in emergencies. UNICEF is acting quickly to deliver essential supplies, ensuring their safety in the short term and their recovery in the long term through psychosocial support.”
Emergency Relief Delivered
UNICEF has dispatched 40 tonnes of essential aid, including:
- Thousands of diapers for babies and toddlers.
- Warm winter clothing for children under seven.
- Quilts and winter jackets for pregnant women.
The first shipment, containing 400 sets of children’s winter clothing and 65 newborn kits, reached Dingri County on January 15. Additional supplies are on the way to provide ongoing support for affected families.
Beyond immediate relief, UNICEF is collaborating with the China Social Work Academy and local organizations to provide mental health and psychosocial support for children and families. This initiative aims to help survivors process trauma and build resilience, contributing to long-term recovery.
Devastation and Coordinated Response
The earthquake caused widespread destruction to homes and infrastructure in the mountainous region. UNICEF’s intervention complements local government efforts in Dingri, Sajia Counties, and Rikaze Prefecture to stabilize living conditions for displaced residents.
UNICEF’s swift response highlights the urgent need for global support in disaster-hit regions. The organization remains committed to addressing immediate needs while fostering long-term recovery and resilience in the Xizang Autonomous Region.
This humanitarian mission exemplifies UNICEF’s dedication to protecting the health, safety, and well-being of vulnerable populations during crises and beyond.