The weeks following the cessation of hostilities in Lebanon have focused on assessments of the high humanitarian needs and economic costs. The conflict has caused massive destruction, displacing nearly 1.2 million people, with 179,000 still unable to return home due to safety concerns, destroyed infrastructure, and limited access to essential services. Though the number of people in formal shelters has dropped to 6,600, the strain on local communities and infrastructure continues to be overwhelming. The hardest-hit areas include Nabatieh and Tyre, where families with young children and elderly members face prolonged displacement are grappling with severe water shortages, unreliable electricity, and damaged facilities.

World Vision organized a dialogue between school representatives and local media to address the critical issue of protecting children’s rights in the media. The event brought together 90 participants, including educators, psycho-pedagogical experts, school administrators, and journalists.

The pandemic hit vulnerable families the hardest, including children, women, and people with disabilities. Many struggled with worsening economic and social conditions, leading to poor mental and physical health. Routine vaccinations dropped, and access to healthcare services became more difficult. To address these issues and support the recovery of public health, the organisation has launched its first major healthcare initiative, focusing on strengthening Georgia's health and child protection systems. Family doctors and social workers, were trained on key health topics such as immunisation, Hepatitis, HIV prevention, HPV, TB, and STDs.

Child Marriage Global Review

World Vision's statement on the 2025 Global Humanitarian Overview highlights urgent crises, the impact of conflict, climate change, and the need for collective action and funding.

Global Livelihoods Sector Annual Report 2023

Children accounted for one-third of all recorded casualties from landmines and unexploded ordnance (UXO) globally in 2023. That is 2,130 children and their families around the world whose lives are forever altered by death and serious injuries. No family should have to worry that their child’s walk to school or football game with friends will end in tragedy, and the children facing these risks need better protection from these deadly weapons.

In this issue of the West & Central Africa Newsletter, we highlight the remarkable progress accomplished across our programmes throughout the year 2024, looking back on the trials and celebrating the triumphs.