When
the tsunami struck on 26 December 2004, it left behind more
than devastated lives, homes and community infrastructure. Entire
industries, including thriving fishing and agriculture businesses,
were swept away by nature’s random fury.
Photo: International Federation (p12485)
When natural disaster
strikes, people need more than food, water and shelter to
recover. What people need, as much as all of these life-saving
elements, is a job. Work brings money and security and rebuilds
the social, psychological and economic fabric of disaster-struck
communities. This is why, as a fundamental part of its tsunami
operations, the International Federation of Red Cross and
Red Crescent Societies is focusing on livelihoods assistance
in tsunami-affected countries.
With the help of the Red
Cross Red Crescent, entire industries will be rebuilt. Already
mobilized are significant cash-for-work schemes, the replacement
of lost or damaged boats and fishing equipment, the training
of workers in the construction industry, and agricultural
assistance to help survivors rebuild and replant devastated
crops. Also prioritized are micro-credit schemes and cottage-industry
support, which will help small businesses to thrive again.
The significant focus
of the Federation and its members on livelihoods assistance
will allow tsunami-affected communities to be rebuilt in a
holistic and sustainable way. Within a few difficult years,
it is hoped that tsunami-devastated economies will flourish,
and that tsunami survivors can look forward to a prosperous
and secure future.
Photo: Olav A. Saltbones/International Federation
(p-IDN0792)
News
Video
resources
17/07/2008
- India
Livelihood projects underway in tsunami-affected India The Canadian Red Cross-funded activities in the tsunami-affected Indian State of Tamil Nadu have seen the completion of several projects, working in close partnership with the Indian Red Cross Society. These projects are linked to the restoration of livelihoods in a region of India where the coastal population is largely dependant on sustenance fishing. (...)
Disaster management
