Sfax, Tunisia – As part of its humanitarian response scale up in the Sfax Governorate, IOM Tunisia, in close collaboration with its main implementing partner, the Tunisian Red Crescent (TRC), has provided 7,000 stranded migrants with food baskets during the holy month of Ramadan.

IOM’s food assistance during Ramadan is crucial as it proves to be a life-sustaining activity with an immediate impact.

‘With thanks to our donors and TRC as our main counterpart, IOM managed to assist 7,000 vulnerable migrants in a matter of two weeks with food baskets and drinking water.’, explains Mr Wria Rashid, Head of IOM Sfax sub-office.

Fatima, one of the beneficiaries explains: ‘At home, we often shared fast-breaking meals with family, friends, and neighbors. Here, I really miss this special warmth. It is not the same experience nor feeling as embracing Ramadan at home. “

‘The main challenges I'm currently facing include securing food for myself and accessing clean water.’, shares Abdullah who welcomed his food basket with a lot of emotions. 

IOM has conducted several field assessments to target urgent needs in terms of WASH, health, and food necessity. As a response, on 30 March, IOM and TRC have implemented a mobile health clinic which has targeted 150 migrants with various services, thanks to the dedicated support from the Ministry of Health, the Regional Health Directorate in Sfax and TRC.

‘We renew our thanks to the IOM Sfax sub-office for the good cooperation and fast response on the ground in the provision of logistical and administrative support with the food distributions and direct assistance.’, Anas Al-Hakim, Director General of the Tunisian Red Crescent Regional Authority in Sfax. 

Over the coming months, and in close collaboration with the Tunisian Red Crescent in Sfax, IOM Tunisia will continue providing immediate large-scale assistance to migrants in need. IOM stands ready to collaborate with authorities at national, regional, and local levels, as well as with the wider humanitarian community, in the provision of emergency assistance to the most vulnerable.

For more information, please contact: 

In Tunisia - Email: iomtunispublicinfo@iom.int

In Cairo - Email: MENAMEDIA@iom.int