austraLasia #2170
Monsoons arrive in Myanmar - Archbishop continues to plead

YANGON: 10th June 2008 -- People in Myanmar's devastated areas are limping back to some semblance of normal life.  But heavy monsoons are already lashing the same people living in the same areas washed away last month by Cyclone Nargis.  A million and a half people are estimated to be without homes, and while some 60% (according to the Archbishop) of people in need have been reached in some way or other, 40% have not. Dead bodies remain unburied still, 90% of schools in the Delta region were destroyed, and most of the thatch trees needed for re-thatching roofs are gone.
    Archbishop Charles Bo, in another letter describing the situation, pleads for further help. "Children are trying to study in roofless schools" he points out. "Without proper uniforms and books, going to school is a challenge to cyclone affected children" he adds. "Protection of children is becoming a serious concern. We have started helping children get back to school with support for uniforms and educational needs".
    "During my tours I met a lad of seven. Ni Tut was his name. He came from the village of Lein-mor-gone near Ai Ma.  I asked him whether he would go to school this year.  he said: 'No, both my parents were taken away by Nargis and my school teacher is dead too. Our village school building has disappeared.  I now live and work with my uncle, fishing.  I am happy'. 'But would you go to school if I help you?'. Ni Tut just smiled".
    The archbishop points out also that churches, pagodas and monasteries lie in ruins.  Thousands of people need trauma-healing and in a country known for deep spiritual practices, praying can be a way of healing painful memories.  But even the consolation of praying is denied inasmuch as the places where they normally pray no longer exist.  But in addition, the great emerging need is shelter.  With at least 700,000 huts needing repair or rebuilding, soaring zinc prices - we need help.
    The archbishop concludes his letter with a word of deep thanks "to all of you who supported us during the emergency phase. We owe you a deep debt of gratitude".
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Title: australasia 2170
Subject and key words: EAO Provinces MYM Monsoons
Date (year): 2008
ID: 2000-2099|2170