Local partner organization TPO Cambodia reacts on stampede Phnom Penh (03-12-2010)

During Cambodia’s annual Water Festival in capital city Phnom Penh, some 347 people where killed. Prime Minister Hun Sen announced the disaster as being the “biggest tragedy Cambodia has experienced in the past 31 years, since the collapse of the Khmer Rouge regime”. In addition to the dead, hundreds of people where injured.

As part of their core strategy, TPO Cambodia reacted on the tragedy by reaching out to the victims and their families. Through a telephonic help service, newspaper ads and spreading information through radio and television programmes, people get direct support: providing communities with information and give them the possibility to contact other affected people helps in processing this drama.

Since 1995 HealthNet TPO is actively working in Cambodia, improving the overall health status of the population. Prior to the merger of Healthnet International (HNI) and TPO, a local TPO office was established in Cambodia. They are now part of the ‘family’ of independent TPO’s, HNI’s and HealthNet TPO offices all over the world. In 20110 HealthNet TPO and TPO Cambodia intend to intensify their collaboration by working together on new modules in community mobilization and community mental health activities. In addition HealthNet TPO will support TPO Cambodia in finding new funds to pursue with mental health projects aiming to improve the quality of life for the Cambodian population.

Visit the website of TPO Cambodia for more information.