The most devastating natural disaster to hit Fiji in recorded history left no one untouched and children were among the hardest hit.
As the Tropical Cyclone Winston left Fiji on Sunday, thousands of families braced for the after effects, including searching for loved ones, returning to and in some cases rebuilding their homes and beginning the huge task of clean up and reconstruction.
Life after Cyclone Winston
All parts of the country experienced strong winds, tidal surges, flooding and cuts to power or water supplies. Over 62,400 people are in 875 evacuation centres, with many more staying with relatives or in other displacement sites.
While UNICEF provided emergency aid across the country, we met with children and their families across the country to understand their situation. And, along with photographers Vlad Sokhin and Joseph Hing, we captured these powerful photos which depict the devastating impact of the cyclone on local communities.
Makereta, 13 years old
“I was terrified, I don’t know what we’ll do now,” she said.
Kalisi and her son 3-year old Tuvosa
“We have lost everything. When my soon realised what happened to our house, he cried. Every time he comes here he cries. He almost doesn't talk to us, I think it affected him", she said.
Gabriel, Nasau Village
Children in Navuavua village, Ra Province
Lusiana, 10 years old
Here 10-year-old Lusiana (right) is helping her grandmother and auntie sort through and fold clothes for her family at Rakiraki village, Fiji.
Helping children and families in urgent need
UNICEF Pacific is working in partnership with the Government of Fiji responding to the urgent needs of affected children and communities.
You can help UNICEF reach more families in crisis by making a donation.
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