IOM is appealing for USD 7.4 million to provide additional
logistical support to the ongoing humanitarian operation, shelter,
sanitation and early recovery assistance to hundreds of thousands
of internally displaced people (IDPs) in the North and East of the
country.

The appeal, part of the Sri Lanka Common Humanitarian Plan
(CHAP), aims to raise a total of USD 155 million to provide
humanitarian aid for up to 433,000 people in 2009.

Building on IOM's extended field presence, in coordination with
the Sri Lankan government and in close cooperation with the World
Food Programme (WFP) and other UN partners, IOM plans to put in
place an efficient, cost-effective network for the transportation
of relief items to IDPs, including food and non-food items, such as
medical supplies and reconstruction materials.

The appeal aims to improve the living conditions of IDPs and
host communities through the distribution of emergency shelter
kits, preparation of emergency shelter sites and construction of
emergency shelters in line with international standards.

In partnership with government agencies, local partners and
NGOs, IOM intends to improve access to adequate water and
sanitation facilities and to implement hygiene awareness campaigns
to reduce the risk of water-borne diseases.

IOM also plans to support immediate income-generating activities
for conflict-affected communities by supporting beneficiaries to
help them engage in agriculture, livestock and fisheries
activities.

Through its Colombo office and sub offices in Mannar, Jaffna and
Vavuniya, IOM is also well positioned to provide immediate
assistance to IDPs coming out of the conflict zone. IOM is a member
of the UN Country Team and a member of all the main Inter-Agency
Standing Committee (IASC) emergency cluster groups.

For further information, please contact:

Mohammed Abdiker

IOM Sri Lanka

Tel: +94 11532 53 00

E-mail: "mailto:mabdiker@iom.int">mabdiker@iom.int