Burma - Food Security Water and Sanitation - Oxfam-Québec 2014

March 2014 – Despite several positive political developments in Burma the country continues to experience a challenging humanitarian situation due to frequent natural disasters as well as decades of low-intensity conflict between the Burmese army and the minority ethnic independence movements. More than 630 000 people are internally displaced having been forced to move away from their homes due to conflict and more than 415 000 Burmese are living as refugees in neighbouring countries. Continued clashes between government troops and armed groups have displaced approximately 93 000 people in Kachin state and increased their vulnerability. With DFATD’s support Oxfam Québec is helping up to 22 372 displaced people in conflict-affected areas of Kachin State by increasing access to safe drinking water sanitation facilities and hygiene promotion and meeting immediate food needs. Activities include: (1) promoting good hygiene practices; (2) installing infrastructure such as water systems women’s bathing shelters and latrines for 8 872 displaced people; and (3) providing cash grants to 13 500 displaced people to improve food security.

The expected immediate outcomes for this project include: (1) increased access to safe drinking water sanitation facilities and hygiene promotion; and (2) increased access to interventions to enhance food security. The expected intermediate outcome is reduced vulnerability of crisis-affected people especially women and children.