UNICEF appealed on Thursday for US$1.2 billion in emergency funding for 2010.

"We need to support fragile countries before the next crisis hits," UNICEF Zimbabwe representative Peter Saluma said in Geneva.

UNICEF emergency funds would go to 28 countries and territories in "the most desperate need," according to the organization's 2010 humanitarian action report, released on Thursday.

"The infusion needs to be rapid and substantial," Saluma said, adding "Delays cost lives."

UNICEF organization received just under half of its 2009 appeal for US$1 billion. It used those funds to respond to 200 international emergencies.

Founded in 1946, UNICEF works in 190 countries and is headquartered in New York.

(Xinhua News Agency February 5, 2010)