15/04/2025 |

Press release

Gruelling conditions in Myanmar as humanitarian needs remain high following devastating earthquake

The latest photos and videos from Myanmar (including B-roll of flooding in Mandalay) are available at: https://tinyurl.com/3rfunfahSagaing/Mandalay, Kuala Lumpur, Geneva, 16 April 2025 – Humanitarian efforts are intensifying despite difficult conditions in Myanmar. IFRC rapid response teams and specialists have joined hundreds of staff and volunteers from the Myanmar Red Cross during what is normally the country’s most joyful time.On the ground, conditions are challenging. It has been raining heavily, flooding streets and camps, and more downpours are forecast. There have also been over 400 aftershocks, one of which registered 5.5 on the Richter scale on Sunday morning and caused buildings to collapse in Mandalay city and the surrounding areas. Temperatures have reached forty degrees Celsius and the start of the monsoon season is only weeks away.The Thingyan festival, which started on Sunday, normally celebrates Myanmar’s new year with water-splashing rituals, symbolising cleansing and renewal. Instead, those worst affected by the earthquake continue to live in the open, close to the ruins of their homes, schools and hundreds of pagodas, monasteries, churches and mosques reduced to rubble.Aftershocks are causing widespread fear. As a result, hundreds of families continue to live outside their homes, fearing the remaining buildings may collapse. The Myanmar Red Cross Society (MRCS), alongside IFRC and other National Societies and the ICRC have been on the ground across Sagaing, Mandalay, Naypyidaw, Bago and Southern Shan, to distribute prepositioned supplies that were already in country while new supplies are being dispatched. They are providing shelter, food, safe drinking water, relief items specific to young children and pregnant or lactating women, hygiene items, kitchen sets, mosquito nets, and health care through mobile health clinics and psychosocial support.A humanitarian airbridge from Kuala Lumpur has also enabled the Red Cross and its partners, to coordinate and facilitate the provision of 150 metric tonnes of additional supplies. In the first week since the earthquake, eight charter flights and six cargo shipments - equivalent to 50 fully loaded trucks and a convoy stretching over 1.2 kilometers – were facilitated. Since, a total of 150 metric tonnes of goods, including hygiene kits, jerry cans, tents, tarpaulins, blankets and mosquito nets have arrived in country“Since the first hours of this response, generous individuals, national actors and those who are part of the affected communities have provided the most impactful and rapid support. What I am witnessing is an extraordinary spirit of solidarity and humanity where organisations such as the Myanmar Red Cross and their incredible volunteers are working flat out to ensure needs are met, as fast as possible. This is normally a time for celebrations. Instead, it is a time of mourning and loss. The energy, selfless dedication and determination of these individuals and humanitarian workers are a beacon of hope to these communities who have lost everything,” said Nadia Khoury, IFRC Head of Delegation for Myanmar. She is currently with the IFRC and Myanmar Red Cross rapid response teams and local volunteers in Mandalay and Sagaing regions.Interviews can be arranged live in country with:IFRC Regional Director, Asia Pacific, Alexander Matheou in Mandalay IFRC Head of Delegation for Myanmar Nadia Khoury, in MandalayInterviews with IFRC staff in the field can also be arranged in French, Spanish, Italian, Japanese and regional languages such as Bahasa.For more information or to set up an interview contact: [email protected] Earthquake response:Maryann Horne, Communications delegate for the Emergency response +60 19 227 62 90 or WhatsApp or Signal +61 476 006 007In Kuala Lumpur: Li Li Chin +60 234 0872In Geneva: Tommaso Della Longa +41 79 708 4367 Scott Craig: +41 76 370 3575

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30/03/2025 |

Emergency

Myanmar: Earthquake

A devastating 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck central Myanmar on 28 March at 1:10 PM local time, with its epicenter just 17 kilometres from Mandalay. This was followed by a powerful 6.4 magnitude aftershock, intensifying the destruction. Entire buildings have collapsed, key infrastructure has been severely damaged, and communications remain cut off in many areas. The Myanmar Red Cross Society has activated its Emergency Operations Centers and deployed volunteers for search and rescue. The full scale of the disaster is still unfolding, but early reports indicate significant humanitarian needs. Your contribution will support the Myanmar Red Cross in its efforts to rescue survivors, bring urgent care and help people through their recovery.

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30/03/2025 |

Press release

Myanmar Red Cross races against time to save lives after the earthquake

Yangon/Kuala Lumpur/Geneva, 30 March 2025 — After the powerful 7.7 magnitude earthquake that struck central Myanmar on 28 March 2025, the Myanmar Red Cross Society (MRCS) teams were immediately deployed to support communities affected. The destruction has been extensive, and humanitarian needs are growing by the hour.In the face of this devastation, the MRCS has mobilized hundreds of trained volunteers to provide urgent assistance. Within hours, MRCS activated its Emergency Operations Center and launched search and rescue efforts. Volunteers are administering first aid, providing pre-hospital care, distributing emergency relief items such as blankets, tarpaulins, and hygiene kits, and deploying mobile health teams to the most affected communities.“Despite facing damage to their own homes and facilities, Red Cross volunteers have acted with courage and speed to help their neighbors,” said Alexander Matheou, Regional Director for Asia Pacific at the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC). “The magnitude of this disaster is substantial, and the need for support is urgent.”The IFRC has a longstanding commitment to humanitarian efforts in Myanmar, working in close collaboration with the Myanmar Red Cross. Immediately after the earthquake, the IFRC is swiftly mobilizing its extensive network of 191 National Societies to provide essential support. This response includes the allocation of emergency funds and the coordination of international assistance to empower MRCS in expanding its life-saving operations.MRCS also provides mental health and psychosocial support and assists families who have been separated through its Restoring Family Links programme, supported by the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC). With temperatures rising and the monsoon season approaching in just weeks, there is an urgent need to stabilize affected communities before secondary crises emerge.IFRC Launches Emergency AppealTo scale up support, the IFRC launched an Emergency Appeal for 100 million CHF to assist 100,000 people (20,000 households) with life-saving relief and early recovery support over the next 24 months. Two million CHF were released through the IFRC’s Disaster Response Emergency Fund (IFRC-DREF) to support the operation immediately.“This is not just a disaster; it is a complex humanitarian crisis layered over existing vulnerabilities,” Matheou added. “Myanmar continues to face internal displacement and food insecurity. This earthquake exacerbates an already fragile situation. The global community must step forward to support a bold and sustained response.”A Call for Global SolidarityThis initiative represents one of the most significant and urgent humanitarian efforts Myanmar has faced in recent years. The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) appeals to donors, partners, and supporters around the globe to act with generosity and urgency.“While the people of Myanmar show incredible resilience, they cannot navigate this crisis alone,” emphasized Matheou. “With your support, we can not only save lives today but also lay the groundwork for rebuilding safer and stronger communities for a brighter future.”Significant damage has been reported in the regions of Sagaing, Mandalay, Magway, Naypyitaw, Bago and Southern Shan. Critical infrastructure, including the historic Ava Bridge connecting Sagaing and Mandalay, Mandalay University, and various heritage sites, has been damaged or destroyed. Airports in Mandalay and Naypyidaw remain closed due to safety concerns, and telecommunications outages are hampering coordination in several regions.For more information or to request an interview, please contact: [email protected] Kuala Lumpur Afrhill Rances +60 19 271 3641 In Geneva Tommaso Della Longa +41 79 708 43 67 

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28/03/2025 |

Article

Powerful earthquake rocks central Myanmar: Red Cross responds

A powerful earthquake, measuring 7.7 magnitude on the Richter Scale, hit central Myanmar at 1:10 pm local time on 28 March, causing widespread damage to homes, collapsing buildings and infrastructure. The epicenter of the quake was about 17 kilometers from Mandalay, the country’s second-largest city.Emergency response teams from the Myanmar Red Cross were immediately deployed to provide urgent care for people injured or looking for missing loved ones. Teams continue to assess the impact on people caught up in the quake.A strong 6.4 magnitude aftershock, just 12 minutes later, intensified the devastation, further damaging structures in Mandalay and Sagaing, complicating rescue efforts, and raising fears of more casualties.Full extent of damage unclearThe full extent of the destruction and official casualty figures remain unclear, however significant damage to key infrascruture has been confirmed:• The Sagaing automobile bridge that serves as the main connector to Mandalay has collapsed, further complicating emergency response.• Mandalay Airport is reported to have been affected, but the extent of damage is not yet clear.• Mandalay University and the Mandalay palace ancient wall have collapsed.• The Myanmar Red Cross Society Nay Pyi Taw headquarters building and the Mandalay Emergency Operations Centre have been damaged.• Tele-communications have been cut off in Mandalay, Sagaing and Southern Shan State causing the blockage of internet and unstable phone connectivity.Watch this video update from Marie Manrique, acting IFRC Head of Delegation in Myanmar:To scale up support, the IFRC launched an Emergency Appeal for 100 million CHF to assist 100,000 people (20,000 households) with life-saving relief and early recovery support over the next 24 months. Two million CHF were released through the IFRC’s Disaster Response Emergency Fund (IFRC-DREF) to support the operation immediately.The earthquake’s impact extended beyond Myanmar’s borders.In Bangkok, Thailand—nearly 800 kilometers away—the tremors triggered mass evacuations of high-rise buildings. The aftershock contributed to further instability, and a partially constructed skyscraper in the Chatuchak district collapsed, though the number of workers inside remains unknown.Metro and light rail services were temporarily suspended as a safety precaution. The tremors were also felt across several countries, leading to evacuations and widespread panic.The Thai Prime Minister declared a state of emergency in Bangkok, urging residents to evacuate tall buildings due to the risk of aftershocks. Authorities are assessing infrastructure safety, and flight operations at Suvarnabhumi Airport are expected to face delays in the coming days.

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21/03/2025 |

Article

World Water Day: After the quake, Red Cross brings life-changing water to Vanuatu’s hidden communities

When the island nation of Vanuatu was hit by a powerful earthquake in December2024, much of the global media attention focused on the damage to the island nation’s most populated areas, in particular its capital, PortVila.Manyrural and remotecommunities suffered just as badly. But they did not get the same immediate attention. One of theseis the out-of-the-way community of Britano, avillage of 750 residentsthatis a 30-minute walk up a bumpy road from the island’s main highway.“Before Red Cross came, Britano residents were really stuck,”says the community’s chief, George John. “Unlike other areas, we cannot survive on food from the garden because we don’t have room for plots of land.”Britano was hit particularly hard by the quake because it destroyed the very businesses and livelihoods people relied on to pay for food, school fees and basic needs.Local resident Meriam Motoutorua says people are finding it hard to make ends meet.“Most of us worked in the city [Port Vila], but after the earthquake we have no income,”she said. “We relied on the market to buy our food. It is really hard to provide daily meals, pay school registration fees and bills.Now, all people can do is sit at home and worry where their next meal is coming from.”Water sources destroyedBritano also lostits only source of clean, safe water.Water from Britano’s six mains taps were reduced to a dribble, forcing residents to wash and collect water from a creek down in a steep nearby valley.“Women are washing their clothes in the river down there,” says AndrewNayo, Britano’scommunity chairman. “They go there and bring the water back.”Not only is it a long trek with heavy water bottles, the water itself is not safe. “This water is mixed with the waste coming from people using the spring,” adds Motoutorua.Water brings new hope to a neglected communityWithin days after the quake, Britanowas still waiting for newsfrom the outside world. The first sign that help was on the way waswhena Vanuatu Red Cross team arrived to conduct a health assessment and distribute water.They quickly reported back to headquarters and soon after,Dickinson Tevi,the VRCSSecretaryGeneral,arrived with his team totake stock of what was needed. Britano’s leaders told him: “We urgently need help solve the lack of clean water.”The help they needed has now arrived in the form oftwo 6,000-litrewater tanks, installed atop a solid foundation of rock and concrete. It wasa challenging project, not least because of Britano’s hard-to-access location and rocky ground, which made digging the foundation a difficult task. Getting permission to build also required negotiating with land owners.From the beginning, it was a team effort. The Vanuatu Red Cross Water Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) team engaged with the Britano community to solve the water-shortage problem. The Vanuatu Red Cross engaged community labourers and ordered the tanks and building materials that would be used to create a roof-like structure for capturing large volumes of rainwater.Project coordinator Johnny Mereka kept the workers on task and while women of the community prepared food to keep up the energy and morale. Now, the plan is create a space under the water-collection roof that will serve as a much-needed “safe house” in times of disaster.“Britano is so happy to get the two water tanks because it’s the first time we have water on site, which is a great help,”says Mereka.Red Cross WASH specialist Richard Tabeva, who worked with the community to realise the water-capture project, says it’s hard toput into words what theproject means to Britano, because water supply was a problem even before the earthquake. “Over so many years, they have never had something like this, so it is good to see,” he said.On to other challengesWith the water tanks installed and a newly built rainwater collection system, Britanocannowfocus onother challenges.The earthquake rendered the village dispensary unusable, meaning children needing treatment need to make the trek to Kawenu School clinic, an hour’s walk away. Red Cross will replace the damaged floor and reinforce it against future disasters.Meanwhile, the Vanuatu Red Cross plans to roll out an emergency cash assistance programme next month. It could not have come at a better time for Britano’s most vulnerable residents, particularly people who lost jobs in town or were badly injured due to the earthquake. The cash will enable them to stock up on essential items and help pay school fees.Reuben and his brother used to make a living selling fish from the bay. After the earthquake, their kayak was stolen. Now his nets hang unused from a tree in the garden and his brother has taken a job picking fruit in Australia.Reluctantly, Reuben is planning to leave his family behind to join him. “We have to find a way to survive,” he says. “All we can do now is support each other.”More than just waterThe Red Cross intervention was about morethanwater. It was also about recognising the experience and suffering of a community thatfelt forgottenby the outside world.It was also about empowering the community to think beyond water and make plans to use the space below the water collection structure as an evacuation area for future disasters.For village leader Chief John, it brings a new sense of hope.“It’s been really hard being the chief of the community at this time,”says Chief John. “The Red Cross were the first ones to come and give us water. It’s the first time someone came here to help us”.“When you see your child cry, you step in to help,”he says. “Red Cross did the same to us and helped wipe away the tears so we could walk into the future.”Learn more about the IFRC’s work in water, sanitation and hygiene:IFRC water, sanitation and hygiene webpageRead more IFRC World Water Day 2025 stories:World Water Day 2025: Angola Red Cross and IFRC bring safe, treated water and hygiene messages to communities hard hit by cholera | IFRCWorld Water Day 2025: From glaciers to the kitchen sink, a story of water and resilience from two mountain villages in Tajikistan | IFRCWorld Water Day 2025: Clean water is about safety, health and so much more | IFRC

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20/02/2025 |

Article

Vanuatu struggles to rebuild as terrifying aftershocks continue

Almost two months after a powerful earthquake shook the islands of Shefa Province, many coastal farmers are still struggling to clear and replant plots covered by quake-triggered landslides.About 80 per cent of Vanuatu’s population of 335,000 relies on subsistence farming to make a living, with roughly a third living in Shefa Province.While the earthquake has undoubtedly affected agricultural production, the earthquake’s impact on the capital’s tourist-based economy has been staggering. The impact has been compounded by aftershocks – as large as 5.6 magnitude and as recent as 10 February – continue to rock the island nation.In Port Vila, the international wharf is closed to cruise ships, the main road’s Tagabe bridge needs urgent repairs to take larger loads and many buildings, public and private, have been assessed for damage leading to dozens of unsafe structures being demolished.Port Vila’s once-thriving commercial district of shops, offices and markets used to be a drawcard for tourists and cruise-ship visitors. Now, it remains closed off, a ghost town of broken buildings and rubble. The only visitors are insurance assessors and demolition crews, along with forlorn-looking business owners.Compounding impactsAnd while the Government predicts a pick-up in tourist numbers, they are nowhere near what they were this time last year.Dickinson Tevi, the Secretary General of the Vanuatu Red Cross Society, says the impact of the earthquake is compounding the sense of hopelessness many people are feeling, especially those who lost jobs and are still looking for work.“We were all looking forward to getting back on our feet after the recent cyclones [Judy and Kevin in 2023] and the pandemic [2020-22],”Tevi explains. “The impact of the earthquake on the local economy is compounding the pre-existing situation.”“After all we’ve been through, people are now dealing once more with damaged homes, unemployment and the difficulty of repairing their lives.” As an initial step, multi-purpose cash grants of 20,000 vatu (VUT), the local currency, will be open to people who have lost their job or are have a reduced income as a result of the earthquake's impact on the economy of Port Vila's central business district. Before the earthquake, town centre tourism businesses employed a large number of people.These grants, which equal roughly 150 Swiss Francs, aim to tide people over until a longer-term programme takes effect that focuses on helping people find or rebuild sustainable livelihoods.“This multipurpose cash is an interim measure, something for people to spend on necessities while waiting for the recovery programs to settle in,” Tevi says.Longer-term livelihoods recoveryThe Vanuatu Red Cross is also working with government and relevant agencies on a long-term plan for sustainable livelihoods that will focus on teaching new skills and address nutrition, healthy lifestyles and recovery from trauma, the organization’s Controller, Augustine Garae, explains.Families of the 14 people who lost their lives in the earthquake will also receive 40,000 VUT (298 CHF) from the Red Cross to cover funeral and other expenses.Red Cross cash grants will also be available to people living in urban areas who used to work in Port Vila town. While the exact number of workers is hard to quantify, the Vanuatu Chamber of Commerce and Industry [VCCI] puts the number at more than 900.One of the biggest employers, Chantilly’s on the Bay resort, employed 72 people and only 12 have found work elsewhere. The iconic building has now been demolished.Other businesses are hanging on, but it isn’t clear how long they can survive without a pick-up in trade.A VCCI survey of 169 businesses found nearly half will be forced to close if the economy doesn’t improve. Even so, many owners are reluctant to close for good because so many people rely on them for a living.“This would usually be our busiest time of year,” one business owner Ivan Oswald told the Guardian’s Michelle Duff. The owner of Nambawan Café, Oswald says he has had to reduce staff from 24 to 2.Elsewhere, ingenuity has come to the fore. Vendors of fresh food and fish who used to make a decent living in the once-bustling downtown market have set up stalls in forecourts, parks and wherever they can find space selling handicrafts, home-made treats and discarded bric-a-brac in a bid to keep their families afloat.

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05/02/2025 |

Press release

Türkiye and Syria earthquakes two years on: A long road to recovery

Ankara / Damascus / Geneva – 5 February 2025 –Having a home remains out of reach for hundreds of thousands whose lives have been upended by the earthquakes in Türkiye and Syria two years ago, warns the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies.On 6 February 2023, a series of earthquakes killed over 55,000 people in Türkiye and Syria, in the worst earthquakes the region has seen in 20 years. Two years on, millions of people in both countries are still struggling to rebuild their lives.Long road to recoveryIn Türkiye, more than 400,000 people continue to live in temporary container cities, facing an uncertain future. In Syria, many of those affected by the earthquake were already contending with compounded crises: more than a decade of conflict, economic hardship, extreme climate events and disease outbreaks.In Syria, the situation remains incredibly challenging. Two years after the devastating earthquake, millions are still struggling to rebuild their lives. For many, the disaster was yet another blow in the midst ofmore than a decade of conflict, economic hardship, extreme climate shocks, and disease outbreaks—compounding an already dire humanitarian crisis.Need for supportTurkish Red Crescent (TRC) and Syrian Arab Red Crescent (SARC) have been supporting people affected by the earthquake since day one. After providing essential services such as food, water and first aid in the first weeks after the disaster, they continue to help those affected for the longer term with cash, mental health and livelihoods support.Cash assistance has been vital to help affected families regain a sense of stability after a quarter of them have lost their sources of income. The Turkish Red Crescent supported over a million people with cash, not just to cover basic needs, but also to help revive the local economy. Micro and small-to-medium sized enterprises and farmers received a much-needed boost to continue their business, with women-led businesses and women farmers receiving support.Similarly, SARC has distributed multi-purpose cash assistance to 12,890 households, provided crucial health services to over 5.3 million people, and supported communities with critical water, hygiene and sanitation for more than 5.5 million people. Furthermore, SARC provided over 20 million vital humanitarian services by distributing food parcels and essential non-food items like jerrycans, tarpaulins, and kitchen sets, among other services.Mental struggleThe need for mental health and psychosocial support remains critical as people continue to struggle with the psychological burden of the earthquake. Many have lost loved ones in the disaster, have witnessed their world falling apart and have lost everything they had in just minutes. The Turkish Red Crescent and the Syrian Arab Red Crescent have been providing hundreds of thousands of people with specialist mental health support.“I miss my old life and want to return to it. I want a beautiful home, but I need opportunities to make that happen. The help we have received has been invaluable, and I hope it does not stop. The effects of this earthquake will not fade in a year or two”, says Gül Ineci, an earthquake survivor living in a container camp in Kahramanmaraş.Both staff and volunteers in the Syria and Türkiye, have endured the earthquake’s devastation, losing loved ones and homes, yet they continue to respond with unwavering dedication.“Two years after the February 6 Pazarcık earthquake, we honor the memories of those we lost and stand in unwavering solidarity with the survivors. With the strength and solidarity of our nation, humanitarian organizations, local communities, and global partners, we have made remarkable progress from response to recovery. As the Turkish Red Crescent, we remain steadfast in our mission to build safer, more resilient communities through the power of compassion and collective action. Together, we are working to rebuild lives and ensure no one is left behind”, said Fatma Meriç Yılmaz, President of Turkish Red Crescent.“The resilience and determination of the Syrian people continue to inspire us all, two years after the devastating earthquake that shook Syria. The SARC has stood unwaveringly by the people of Syria, providing critical humanitarian support to those in need, despite the immense challenges. While we have made significant strides in responding to the immediate impacts of the disaster, the road to recovery is long. We remain committed to supporting affected communities, not only with relief but with the long-term solutions necessary to rebuild lives, restore infrastructure, and ensure the well-being of those displaced by the earthquake. Our work is far from over, and we will continue to stand by the people of Syria as they rebuild their lives, now and in the years to come”, said Dr. Hazem Bakleh, President of the Syrian Arab Red Crescent.For more information, audiovisual material or to request an interview, please contact:[email protected] Ankara: Sevil Erkus, +90 536 644 9122 In Beirut:Mey Al Sayegh, +96176174468In Budapest: Julie Enthoven, +36 70 508 5702In Geneva: Tommaso Della Longa, +41 79 708 4367

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03/02/2025 |

Article

Two years later, a survivor of the Türkiye-Syria earthquake is seeing a better, safer and healthier future

The devastating earthquakes that struck southern Türkiye in 2023 affected millions of lives, leaving destruction and hardship in their wake. Among the survivors is Canan, a mother of four who, along with her family, resides in a container city in Hatay.Canan’s story is one of perseverance despite physical and emotional scars. “During the earthquake, a wall collapsed on my face and back,” she recalls. “I was badly injured. That period was incredibly painful. For a while, I was bedridden. I went through long treatments. Now, I can walk without a walker”.While Canan regained her mobility after her prolonged treatment, she also lost vision in one eye due to debris falling on her face. What affected her most deeply was losing her eyelid, which left her unable to close one of her eyes.“I couldn’t bear to look in the mirror. I always felt bad seeing myself like that and didn’t want to go outside,” she said, reflecting on the emotional toll the experience took on her.Not aloneFortunately, Canan did not have to face this enormous life challenge on her own. Along the way, her psychological recovery has been supported by the Turkish Red Crescent (TRC), which provided trauma counseling for earthquake survivors. The project was done in cooperation with the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), which launched a global emergency appeal within days of the initital earthquakesShe also received critical help through another collaborative TRC and IFRC programme that aims to ensure the safety and protection of people who are often particularly vulnerable following a large-scale disaster – women, children, the elderly and the disabled.Those efforts include financial aid that can provide people with greater stability and independence while also helping them meet other urgent needs such as health care, access to medicine, education opportunities, legal help or psychological support.Such services greatly reduce the chances that people in vulnerable situations are further harmed, abused or exploited, and they greatly increase the chances for a full and dignified recovery.In Canan’s case, the program enabled her to access health services for physiotherapy and treatment to restore her eyelid function.Though she still cannot see from one eye, Canan feels immense relief and gratitude for the chance to regain her confidence.“They supported me a lot,” she says of the Red Crescent. “I didn't want to show my face to anyone. I even got over that. Now I am very confident. I am normal. One of my eyes is blind, but I still have many friends and loved ones.”Comfortable and confidentAnother significant impact of the earthquakes was her intense fear of entering buildings, a common reaction among survivors. "I couldn’t enter concrete buildings before. I was terrified. But after receiving weekly psychological support from the Turkish Red Crescent for several months, I began to overcome it.”Canan can now get into the buildings, even into high-rise ones.“For the first time after the earthquake, I even went to my sister’s apartment on the 12th floor. Before the psychological support, I wasn’t even going outside. Now I feel more comfortable, more confident. I feel much better," she explained.The earthquakes left millions without homes or livelihoods, and vulnerable groups have been particularly affected. For individuals like Canan, who faced both physical and psychological challenges, these support mechanisms offer a crucial lifeline, enabling survivors to regain their dignity and rebuild their lives.A better life aheadA recent survey showed that the cash assistance programme is having a concrete, measurable impact. According to the study, 88 percent of the people who participated in the project reported improved living conditions.Thefollow-up assessment of the programme, known as Post-Distribution Monitoring, reveals that 51 percent of those who took part used the provided assistance to reduce or eliminate health-related protection risks.Ninety-five percent of people also reported improved household communication and relationships, reinforcing the broader social benefits of the assistance.By Sevil ErkuşSenior Communications Officer, IFRC Türkiye Delegation

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24/01/2025 |

Article

Vanuatu Earthquake: An ‘all hands on deck’ situation that brought helping hands from around the Pacific

Hours after the earthquake struck the main island of Efate on December 17, 2024, staff at Vanuatu’s Vila Central Hospital in the capital, Port Vila, were overwhelmed with more than 200 seriously injured and traumatised people seeking help to dress deep cuts and set broken bones.Earlier that day, Vanuatu Red Cross Society Secretary General Dickinson Tevi was hosting the year-end Christmas party for staff and their families when the ground started trembling and buckling.That was the moment when all present quickly realised that they were dealing with another major disaster, but one very different from the cyclones they were used to.Tevi jumped in his car to survey the extent of the damage and from the state of the roads and what he could see of the buildings, he realised the hospital was going to need all the help it could get.Indeed, the earthquake had badly damaged the hospital’s operating theatre, impacted parts of the main building and patients were already being evacuated. After about two hours, most phone connections stopped working.‘All hands on deck’In the meantime, hospital staff had no choice but to carry on as best they could despite the structural damage, quickly moving the emergency department outside for fear of building collapse. They set up a tent to tend to the wounded.One doctor who rushed back to help summed up the situation as “all hands on deck, we all knew it would be a mass casualty event”.Sadly, 14 fatalities were recorded as a result of the December 17 quake.Moving quickly, Tevi was able to mobilise a team of trained first-aid volunteers to work alongside the hospital’s stretched medical staff. Another Red Cross team was dispatched to help clean up supplies and equipment that had been tossed about by the quake and was cluttering up the storeroom.Crucially, in those first 24 hours, Vanuatu’s emergency response teams kicked into gear. Vanuatu’s Emergency Assistance Team (VANMAT) was deployed to treat injuries, perform emergency surgery and deliver babies.Many doctors and nurses left their families at home and stayed at the hospital to ensure that the injured were cared for and that services continued.New blood for recovery and long-term healthWithin days of the disaster, neighbouring governments stepped up their aid programmes as the extent of the earthquake’s impact became clearer. Specialised Emergency Medical Teams from the Asia Pacific — Australia, Fiji, Indonesia, Japan, New Zealand and the Pasifika Medical Association Medical Assistance Team (PACMAT) — were brought in to fill critical gaps.One of those gaps was the hospital’s blood bank service. The hospital’s acting blood lab manager, Dexter Takao, approached Tevi for help.The Vanuatu Red Cross had already conducted two blood-awareness sessions, as well as donor drives, to ensure the hospital’s doctors could rely on the supply. Meanwhile, the Australian Red Cross, in partnership with the Vanuatu Red Cross, had been tasked with delivering shelter services and supplies, as well as first aid and non-food items.To help fill the gap in the hospital’s blood processing capabilities, the Australian Red Cross’ Lifeblood service quickly responded with equipment and supplies for the overworked blood bank staff. The new blood-processing equipment meant that blood-bank staff no longer had to rely on time-consuming manual collection.The new blood cell washer or centrifuge improves the safety and quality of blood transfusions by cross matching blood and cell antibody types. Other donated items include much needed thermometers, scales and measurement tools.“These machines and supplies will enable us to re-establish blood transfusions and ensure the safety of donations,” said George Junior Pakea, who leads a team responsible for making sure there is enough donated blood to cover emergency and regular needs, among other things.The new equipment will play an important in people’s recovery from the quake and in ongoing health services. “Thanks to the speedy arrival of the Red Cross equipment, we can reduce the turnaround time for the preparation of blood transfusions for conditions like anaemia and mothers who haemorrhage after childbirth, as well as patients undergoing heart surgery,” he said. “We are looking forward to working together with Vanuatu Red Cross to promote community awareness and increase blood donor numbers to ensure we have enough blood to meet our needs.”Connectivity is crucial: ‘IT in a box’The New Zealand Red Cross also responded quickly, launching an emergency appeal the day after the quake that allowed them to support emergency relief efforts, including temporary shelter, food, water, healthcare, protection, psychological services and restoration of communication networks.With additional support from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT), the New Zealand Red Cross also sent two informational technology and telecommunications specialists to ensure the Vanuatu Red Cross’s IT and communications systems remained operational when they were needed most.The team was able to build on work done in June 2024 by the New Zealand Red Cross’s Information Technology and Telecommunications Emergency Response Unit, which had helped to completely upgrade the Vanuatu Red Cross IT systems.The upgrade centered around a unique system called “IT-in-a-Box,” an innovative mobile solution designed for Pacific conditions.“We collaborated really well with local civil engineers,”says John Moriarty, who led the team along with IT specialist Chris Harrison. “With their expertise, we identified the safest working space, and where the IT-in-a-Box could be safely located in the Vanuatu Red Cross national office. We were very pleased with the IT-in-a-Box's ability to withstand the impacts of the earthquake,”“Vanuatu Red Cross staff’s warmth, dedication, and commitment to humanitarian service was truly inspiring,” he added. “It was truly rewarding to apply our technical expertise in direct support of humanitarian efforts in the wake of this crisis."On the global level, the IFRC launched an emergency appeal seeking to raise 5 million Swiss Francs to support the Vanuatu Red Cross Society’s urgent relief efforts to provide shelter, clean water, medical aid, and recovery.The IFRC’s Disaster Response Emergency Fund also provided an immediate loan to the appeal of CHF 750,000 to support rapid response in the most impacted areas.

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20/12/2024 |

Press release

Vanuatu earthquake: A nation in crisis highlights urgent need for community-based preparedness

Suva / Kuala Lumpur / Geneva, 20 December – The island country of Vanuatu is reeling from the devastating impact of a 7.4 magnitude earthquake that has claimed at least 10 lives, left over 200 injured, and caused widespread destruction across Efate Island, including the capital, Port Vila. This disaster, compounded by aftershocks and resulting landslides, is a stark reminder of the growing vulnerabilities faced by Pacific nations in the face of natural and climate-induced hazards.The earthquake has destroyed homes, schools, hospitals, and critical infrastructure. With communication lines and internet connectivity disrupted, response efforts have been severely hampered. Families are struggling to access safe drinking water, food, and medical care as the government and humanitarian agencies mobilise to address immediate needs.The Vanuatu Red Cross Society (VRCS), supported by the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), is working tirelessly to assist affected communities despite operational challenges, including damage to its own facilities.“The devastating impact of this earthquake is compounded by Vanuatu’s constant battle with natural hazards. We need to go beyond response—we need sustained investments in preparedness, early warning systems, and resilient infrastructure,” said Dickinson Tevi, Secretary General of the Vanuatu Red Cross Society.The crisis in Vanuatu emphasises the need for increased support for disaster preparedness and resilience programmes. Many Pacific countries like Vanuatu face recurring disasters that erode development gains and strain response capacities. While global discussions continue on addressing vulnerabilities in disaster-prone regions, it is essential to prioritise investments in community-based response mechanisms - such as disaster-resistant housing and strengthened early warning systems. This investment is critical to saving lives and reducing the overall costs of humanitarian response."An earthquake of this magnitude means that the needs will be huge. IFRC is ready to provide support as we anticipate that the needs will be scaled up in the days and weeks ahead. We are working closely with the team at Vanuatu Red Cross Society to ascertain the needs on the ground and how best we can provide support in a timely and safe manner,” said Katie Greenwood, IFRC’s Head of Delegation for the Pacific.Vanuatu’s Urgent Humanitarian NeedsThe immediate priorities in Vanuatu include:Search and rescue operations to save lives.Restoring communication and transportation infrastructure.Providing emergency medical care, safe drinking water, and temporary shelters.Supporting families to rebuild in a way that minimises future disaster risks.Vanuatu’s resilience is tested time and again, yet its communities continue to demonstrate remarkable strength. The international community must now act decisively to support both the immediate response, and the long-term preparedness needed to reduce the risks of future disasters. Preparedness is not a luxury; it is a life-saving investment. By acting now, we can prevent future crises and build a safer, more sustainable future for vulnerable nations like Vanuatu.For more information or to request an interview, please contact: [email protected] In Suva:  Soneel Ram, +679 998 3688 In Kuala Lumpur:  Afrhill Rances, +6019 271 3641 In Geneva: Hannah Copeland, +41 76 236 9109

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17/12/2024 |

Article

Afghanistan: One year after devastating quakes in 2023, residents get keys to a new life

It was a celebration of resilience and the possibility of a new life. In early November 2024, people in the Gulran and Zinda Jan districts of Herat, Afghanistan, gathered to mark the completion of 288 newly built homes.The new dwellings were constructed by the Afghan Red Crescent, the IFRC and other local partners for people who lost their homes due to a devastating series of quakes that hit the region in October 2023.Attended by staff members of the IFRC, the Afghan Red Crescent, the provincial governor of Herat, and local media, the event also acknowledged the resilience of families who faced so much devastation after the earthquake – some losing many family members.After receiving the keys to their new homes, the families began the process of moving in.“We are so happy to have a new home,” said Fahima, a 45-year-old woman whose family now has a safe place to live. “We have been staying in tents, but now we have proper shelter.”“When the earthquake wiped away our house and belongings, we lost everything,”she added. “We struggled to find food to survive, and our children had to sleep in tents. We are eight family members, and now, with this home, our lives are so much better compared to what we endured before the earthquake.” ‘Terrifying nights’Gulalai (not her real name), from Shakar Ab village in the Gulran District, says the new shelter offers her family a chance to start again."We are a family of 11," she shared, recalling the chaotic moments during the quake. “When the earthquake struck, we fled our home and sought refuge outdoors. We faced terrifying nights in makeshift accommodations, terrified for our safety. At least now we have a proper home just nearby, and I can say with certainty that we are going to start a new life in our new home.”Before getting access to her new home, she and her three children resorted to huddling together under a tattered blanket. The weight of fear and helplessness as they struggled to endure the cold nights without shelter or security still plagues her.The 40-year-old mother's home in Zinda Jan was reduced to ruins by a disaster that left its mark across four provinces, claiming over 2,000 lives and ravaging 382 villages in ten districts.In the wake of the disaster, the IFRC developed a comprehensive shelter strategy in which support was provided through conditional cash grants, with people from the affected communities carrying out the construction work. They were aided by masons, volunteers, social mobilisers, and engineers from ARCS and IFRC.Religious scholars and key community members were also included in many stages of the planning and execution.“It took about seven months, and the shelter work was completed,” says Hafiz Sadat, an IFRC Senior Shelter Officer who managed the project and provided technical support to the ARCS team.‘It was catastrophic’Ghulam Mahboob, a 45-year-old resident of Shakar Ab village, reflects on the devastation caused by the earthquake."It was catastrophic; many people lost their lives and their homes," he says. "We had no choice but to live for a very long time in the tent provided by the ARCS. Well, our shelters are finally ready, and we are very grateful to ARCS and everyone who helped address our most pressing needs. We still face urgent challenges in other areas, such as access to electricity, clean drinking water, and education for our children."At the onset of the earthquake, the IFRC shelter, and disaster response teams were deployed to the impacted areas and, in collaboration with the ARCS, emergency items, cash, psychosocial support were delivered to the affected families.While medical care, psychosocial support, water and sanitation were the most immediate needs, there were other needs as many of the people who kept family and community life going lost their lives during the quake.“Both my sons have lost their wives in the earthquake,”said one elderly man. “Not only is there is no one to help make bread for the family, but there is no cooking and heating equipment as well. My sons and I must go outside of the village to earn a living.”Even with the new homes, therefore, the families still face many challenges ahead. For this reason, the IFRC and ARCS continue their commitment to accompany the impacted families in their path to recovery.That support has been consistent since the beginning. With support from the IFRC, the ARCS has reached 2,100 households with emergency shelters and household items such as tents or tarpaulins, blankets, jerry cans, kitchen sets and sleeping pads. Overall, the ARCS provided a wide range of assistance to more than 87,000 people.Much of this support was made possible by resources mobilized through a comprehensive IFRC Emergency Appeal that addressed the impacts of multiple shocks, including severe drought, flooding, public health emergencies, economic hardship and the Herat earthquakes. See a more detailed description of the appeal and response operations here.Text by IFRC senior communications officers Sayed Eshaq Muqbel and Rachel Punitha

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10/09/2024 |

Article

Morocco Earthquake: One year later, a local volunteer breaks new ground as she helps her country rebuild

When a powerful 7.2-magnitude earthquake struck Morocco on September 8, 2023, Naima wanted to do what she could to help others in Chichaoua province where she lived and worked in the education sector.It was the deadliest earthquake in Morocco since 2004. According to the national authorities, 2,946 people died and 5,674 were injured. It is estimated that 59,674 houses were destroyed or damaged."After the earthquake, I had the opportunity to volunteer with the Moroccan Red Crescent,” she recalls. "In the first few days, I participated in various activities, including community engagement, in the douars[admnistrative districts] affected by the earthquake.”“Since I speak the local language, Tamazight, I was able to get closer to the people and to understand in depth the needs of the population, whether it’s women, men or children, in this time of crisis.”At first, Naima could only volunteer on the weekends because of her work. But over time, her passion for helping people led her to take on a new role as Moroccan Red Crescent shelter officer in Chichaoua Province. Located in the Atlas Mountains, Chichaoua was one of several areas most heavily impacted by the quake.Breaking new groundThe first female to work in the shelter team of the Moroccan Red Crescent, her role is to support the construction of temporary housing units for those affected by the earthquake.Naima also meets with women in the affected communities to understand their needs and concerns, and to answer any questions they have about the recovery efforts."I decided to join the Moroccan Red Crescent as a shelter assistant because I wanted to be on the front line to help my community recover from this devastating earthquake. I have always believed in the power of teamwork and knew that as a member of the Shelter team, I could make a direct and meaningful impact on the lives of those who need it most.“Seeing the immediate difference that even small actions can make in the face of enormous needs has been very gratifying."The efforts of Moroccan Red Crescent staff and volunteers has been the backbone of the international response to the earthquake as well. With support of the IFRC, which launched an emergency appeal four days after the quake, the Moroccan Red Crescent Society (MRCS) had delivered aid to approximately 55,000 people as of March 2024.The work has been hard – and it’s ongoing – but it has also been a rewarding experience for Naima to see her work and her example making a difference to people in her province.“My involvement with the Moroccan Red Crescent has a positive impact on my life. I am very proud to be a volunteer and to be the first woman to work in the field of shelter. This motivated many other volunteers to get involved and also encouraged women in the affected douars to participate in shelter activities with more confidence.“Involving women in the decision-making process is very important to ensure that their needs are taken into account.”More support still neededThe Moroccan Red Crescent’s aid so far has included essential supplies such as hygiene kits, sanitary pads, household items, and food parcels. Over 300 temporary shelter units have been set up, with plans to install over 1,000. More than 18,000 people have received support for shelter, housing, and settlements.Food security and livelihood programs have helped 6,500 households, while 228 households have received multi-purpose cash assistance. More than 14,000 people have received water, sanitation and hygiene support.However, the communities where Naima works continue to need support. Some have told her about the difficulties they face in paying for transport to the weekly market, while others have indicated having difficulties acquiring hygiene products or accessing medical care. Increased food prices have led some to adjust the composition of their meals.The Moroccan Red Crescent, meanwhile, is accelerating and scaling up long-term recovery efforts in affected villages through cash assistance, livelihood support, protection services and preparedness for future disasters.It will take years for people in Morocco to fully recover, but the Moroccan Red Crescent, with the support of their Red Cross Red Crescent partners, will continue to work with communities in the affected areas to ensure their full recovery over the long term.Text by Pamela Riley

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04/09/2024 |

Press release

One Year Since Morocco Earthquake and Libya Floods

Benghazi / Rabat / Beirut / Geneva, 4 September 2024 – One year after the devastating earthquake in Morocco and catastrophic floods in Libya, the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), alongside the Moroccan and Libyan Red Crescents, remains committed to supporting the recovery and rebuilding efforts in these hard-hit regions. These disasters, which struck within days of each other in September 2023, left deep scars on the affected communities, but also demonstrated the strength and resilience of those impacted.Morocco: A Year of Recovery and ResilienceOn 8 September 2023, a 6.8 magnitude earthquake struck the High Atlas Mountain range in Morocco, affecting over 660,000 people and causing widespread destruction. Over 59,000 homes were damaged or destroyed, leaving 380,000 people without shelter. From the outset, the Moroccan Red Crescent Society (MRC) mobilized to provide emergency aid, including search and rescue operations, first aid, and the distribution of essential relief items.Reflecting on the past year, Dr. Mohammed Bendali, Head of Disaster Management, First-Aid Volunteering and Youth for the Moroccan Red Crescent, said, "The scale of the devastation was immense, but so was the response. Our volunteers and staff worked tirelessly to support the affected communities, providing not only material aid but also mental health and psychosocial support to help people cope with the trauma of the disaster."The focus has now shifted to early recovery, with efforts concentrated on providing durable, insulated shelters, temporary classrooms and clinics, enhancing access to clean water and sanitation, and rebuilding livelihoods, while also looking to complement the support provided by the government to the affected families. Despite the challenges, the MRC remains committed to supporting the affected families for as long as necessary.Libya: Facing the Aftermath of Unprecedented FloodsIn early September 2023, Storm Daniel unleashed heavy rainfall on Libya's northeastern coast, resulting in catastrophic floods that claimed over 5,900 lives and left more than 43,000 people homeless. The failure of two dams above the city – the first at about 11pm on 10 September, the second closer to 1am on 11 September – unleashed catastrophic amounts of water on the city of Derna.The Libyan Red Crescent Society (LRCS) was on the ground immediately following the disaster, providing critical emergency aid, including search and rescue operations, first aid, and the distribution of food, water, and shelter materials. Tragically, the disaster also claimed the lives of several Red Crescent volunteers who were working to save others."One year on, the pain of loss is still deeply felt in the communities we serve," said Omar Jaouda, Secretary General of the Libyan Red Crescent. "But the resilience of the people is remarkable. We have continued to support those most affected, including thousands who are still displaced, as they rebuild their lives and homes."Going forward, the Libyan Red Crescent is transitioning to long-term recovery and resilience by prioritising three key areas: first, increasing attention to recovery and resilience planning and implementation, ensuring that communities are equipped to withstand future shocks and recover effectively. Second, the National Society will bolster its capacity, preparedness, and readiness. And, third, the Libyan Red Crescent will enhance its security management practices to safeguard its operations and personnel, particularly in challenging environments, while also ensuring accountability in all its actions to maintain trust and transparency within the communities it serves.The IFRC’s Emergency Appeal for Libya, which aimed for CHF 20 million to address the extensive needs, has raised CHF 12.4 million to date. These funds have been critical in supporting 130,000 people with essential services, including shelter, health care, and psychosocial support. The IFRC is also working to enhance the LRCS’s capacity for future disaster response by renovating key facilities and equipping an Emergency Operations Centre in Derna.Looking Ahead: A Long Road to RecoveryBoth Morocco and Libya face long and challenging roads to recovery. The IFRC, together with the Moroccan and Libyan Red Crescents and other Red Cross and Red Crescent societies around the world, will continue to stand by these communities, providing the necessary support to ensure that they not only recover but also build resilience against future disasters."The events of last year were a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by communities in disaster-prone regions," said Dr. Hossam El Sharkawi, IFRC Regional DIrector for the Middle East and North Africa. "But they also highlighted the importance of local preparedness and the incredible impact of collective humanitarian efforts. We are committed to supporting the Moroccan and Libyan Red Crescents in their ongoing work to help these communities rebuild and thrive."For more information or to request an interview on/from Morocco or Libya – or from an IFRC spokesperson able to talk about both - please contact: [email protected] In Geneva: Tommaso Della Longa: +41 79 708 43 67Andrew Thomas: +41 76 367 65 87In Beirut: Mey Al Sayegh: +961 761 744 68

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18/06/2024 |

Article

Stories of resilience in Türkiye: Rebuilding livelihoods after the earthquakes

Before the devastating earthquakes that shook Türkiye on 6 February, 2023, Döndü Karabörk made a good living by operating a glassware store in Kahramanmaraş province.But then came the earthquakes.By the time the ground stopped shaking, the glassware store — and most of the delicate objects inside — were destroyed. Everything she had worked for seemed to be completely and permanently shattered.“We were about to restart working, but we didn't have capital,” she recalls. “I was feeling down.”Fortunately, Döndü had a chance to put the pieces of her business back together.With support from the Turkish Red Crescent and the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), Döndü received a cash grant that she used to buy the products needed to reopen and revive her shop."That grant of 30,000 Turkish Lira (CHF 1,000) was very precious to us,” she says. “It was the reason I was able to take my first step back up again."Döndü was later granted another TRY 15,000 (CHF 500) for additional livelihood support. “We went shopping again to buy more products,”she recalls. “Now I'll be able to work more comfortably. Even though the support was small, it was still a very big push for me.”Rebuilding togetherDöndü’s story is far from unique. The earthquakes not only caused widespread destruction — claiming over 55,000 lives, and displacing millions of people — it also destroyed thousands of businesses. Many thousands of people lost their only means of earning income.In a region where agriculture, farming, and labor make up a significant portion of the economy, the impact was particularly severe, affecting over 25 percent of the population. Since then, people have been in the process of rebuilding their lives, a journey that will take several years.The Turkish Red Crescent and the IFRC have been at the forefront of earthquake-response efforts, which have included financial support to help people meet their immediate needs as well as their long-term, livelihood-recovery goals. This support includes grants for micro and small enterprises, rehabilitation of livestock and agricultural areas, and the repair of damaged infrastructure.The IFRC launched anEmergency Appeal for Türkiye in the immediate aftermath of the earthquakes in order to raise CHF 400 million to support people's immediate and long-term needs. Thanks to contributions from numerous donors, recovery support is being provided so that the affected people can get back on their feet.From farmers to craftspeopleThe first phase of the plan supported 607 micro and small enterprises from November 2023 until early 2024. This included craftspeople and artists, with an average cash transfer of TRY 40,000 (CHF 1,300) per person. The livelihoods recovery support has just entered its second phase and will continue until February 2025.“We went through a challenging period both mentally and financially,” said Ökkeş İnce, a carpenter whose house and workshop in Kahramanmaraş were badly damaged. “It was very tough. But we couldn't leave this place.”"I said, ‘Life goes on,’ and started rebuilding our life. We cleared the debris in our workshop and started trying to repair it.” Ökkeş specializes in handcrafted wood carving, producing furniture and accessories.He used the cash grant to purchase the machinery and equipment needed to revitalize his business.Taking care of the landMeanwhile, cash transfers from the Turkish Red Crescent andthe IFRC have helped more than 860 agricultural and livestock farmers who received payments in two installments. Each person received an average of TRY 30,000 (CHF 1,000).“After the earthquakes, I did not give up. I continued to take care of my land,” said Ali Öztürk, a farmer from Gaziantep province.Ali’s barn collapsed before his eyes during the earthquakes and his tractor was destroyed. Despite the challenges, he remained determined to continue farming. With the livelihoods cash grant, he purchased agricultural supplies to maintain his olive and grape crops.“The Turkish Red Crescent and the IFRC provided me with cash support twice," he said. "I first bought fertilizers that I used in the field, then I bought pesticides.” Ali underlines that he still needs financial aid to put his business back on track because he is having difficulty buying some basic items, such as agricultural pesticides. “Buying diesel is what puts us in trouble,” he says.A positive impactA study conducted among earthquake survivors, who were supported in the first phase, revealed the positive impact of Livelihood Recovery Programme. A majority of participants expressed satisfaction with the support received.According to the study, cash assistance was highly preferred over in-kind assistance because people were able to choose for themselves the kind of materials and supplies they needed most. Almost all of those involved say they used the money to purchase equipment, raw materials or machinery. Among farmers, 79 percent reported positive changes in their businesses and operations. For micro and small enterprises, that figure 90 percent.However, the study also highlighted that some recipients felt the amount of cash was insufficient to fully meet their needs, underscoring the necessity for expanded interventions in the upcoming phase.In the second phase of the programme, the Turkish Red Crescent and the IFRC are looking to assist 4,000 micro and small enterprises and 2,000 farmers.Highly vulnerable womenmicro and small enterprises and youngmicro and small enterprisesaged 18-30 will receive TRY 80,000(CHF2,219), those in the manufacturing/production sector will receive TRY 70,000(CHF1,941), and those in the retail/service sectors will receive TRY 50,000(CHF1,386),

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29/04/2024 |

Article

Tajikistan: From landslides to landmines, partnership helps keep people safe and healthy

Three kilometres from the Changal village school in Tajikistan lies a minefield.As the summer holidays approach, chemistry teacher Saida Meliboeva and other Tajikistan Red Crescent volunteers warn children to stay away from the danger zone in the border area between Tajikistan and Uzbekistan.However, cattle are moving into the minefield and children and herding animals are in danger.No one knows exactly where the mines are, as they are not marked on the map. Frequent mudslides and floods move the mines to unpredictable locations.Information shared by the Tajikistan Red Crescent has helped keep children safe and it has been 15 years without any mine accidents.This is just one of the many critical activities supported by a three-yearpartnership between IFRC and the EU issupporting local communities in Tajikistan to effectively anticipate, respond, and recover from the impact of multiple shocks and hazards.Schoolchildren also learn how to act during an earthquake and other disasters and everyday accidents. In a preparedness exercise organised by the Tajikistan Red Crescent, students learned how to leave classrooms quickly and give first aid to the injured."Our teacher told us what to do in case of a mudslide or an earthquake, or what to do if someone breaks a bone or you need to give first aid," says Manija, a student from Panjakent in Tajikistan."If there is an earthquake, we find a place where there are no houses and sit there. We have to staybrave and calm and go out without rushing."Tajikistan Red Crescent volunteer Azambek Dusyorov still remembers what the mudslide approaching his home in Panjakent, looked like. Spotting the mass of earth falling from the mountains, Azambek told his friends and family of the danger and ran for safety up the hill. Fortunately, the house remained standing.Since then, Azambek and other Red Crescent volunteers have planted trees in the yard, the roots of which help keep the earth masses in place. A wide track has been cut into the hillside, allowing the mudslides to descend into the valley without destroying homes and crops.When clashes intensified along the border between Tajikistan and Kyrgystan, Red Crescent volunteerAbdurahmon Sultanbegan visiting homes in the region to make sure people know how to take care of themselves and their neighbors in case of an injury.One of the homes he visited was that ofMashkhura Hamroboeva, in Khistevarz jamoat at Khujand.Since then, meetings have continued, and discussions have revolved around everyday topics."We meet 2–3 times a month. We talk about everything from how to prevent frostbite in winter to how to avoid infectious diseases," says 17-year-old Abdurahmon.It didn’t take long for Abdurahmon's advice to come in handy. When Mashkhura's three-year-old son accidentally spilled a hot cup of tea on himself, Mashkhura remembered what Abdurahmon had told her.Traditionally, a burn had been treated with a cut potato, but this time Mashkhura dipped the child'shand in cool water.There are just some of the Tajikistan Red Crescent actions (supported by the Programmatic Partnership) that help people and communities prevent future catastrophies and take care of themselves during crises they weren’t able to prevent.TheProgrammatic Partnership between the IFRC network and the European Union, provides strategic, flexible, long-term and predictable funding, so that National Societies can act before an emergency occurs. It is being implemented in 24 countries around the world.

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02/04/2024 |

Podcast

Dr. Fatma Meriç Yilmaz: ‘Regardless of culture, country, creed, language or religion,’ ensuring everyone has a seat at the table

As the first female president of the Turkish Red Crescent, Dr. Fatma Meriç Yilmaz talks about her National Society’s role in supporting one of the world’s largest refugee populations and in running the world’s most ambitious humanitarian cash assistance programmes. She also discusses the continuing impacts from the earthquake that struck Türkiye and Syria in Feb 2023. As a champion of women in humanitarian leadership in Türkiye and globally, shetalks about the significant gains made in recent years and what still needs to be done to ensure everyone’s voice is heard.

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20/03/2024 |

Article

Whether flood, earthquake or other crisis, calamity has immediate and lasting impact on access to clean water

Disasters come in many forms, from the earth-shattering violence of earthquakes to the relentless inundation of floods. Amid the chaos and destruction, one critical need transcends the specifics of the catastrophe: access to clean water.The people of Morocco and Libya came face-to-face with this reality after a 6.8-magnitude earthquake struck Morocco on September 8, 2023 and then devastating floods that overwhelmed parts of eastern Libya a couple of days later following a massive storm.In the immediate aftermath of these two disasters, dehydration became a threat, which is especially dire for vulnerable populations like children and the elderly. However, the dangers extended far beyond thirst.“Contaminated water, a consequence of disrupted infrastructure or floodwaters spreading sewage, becomes a breeding ground for waterborne diseases like cholera and dysentery,”says Jamilee Doueihy, a water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) senior officer for the IFRC in the Middle East and North Africa region.“These diseases can quickly overwhelm already strained medical resources, adding another layer of suffering to an already devastated community.”A delicate balance disruptedDisasters disrupt the delicate balance of water infrastructure. Earthquakes can rupture pipes and damage treatment plants, while floods can leave them submerged and inoperable. This loss of access to a clean, reliable water supply creates a ripple effect, impacting sanitation, hygiene, and the ability to prepare food safely.In the immediate aftermath of a major catastrophe like the massive, sudden flood in Libya, dead bodies near or in water supplies can also lead to serious health concerns.The impact goes beyond immediate health concerns, however. Without water for basic needs, people struggle to maintain hygiene, increasing the risk of infection. Displaced communities facing water scarcity often resort to unsafe alternatives, further jeopardizing their health. Water scarcity can also stall recovery efforts, as people are forced to spend time searching for water instead of rebuilding their lives.The good news is that providing clean water is a powerful intervention in times of disaster.“In both Morocco and Libya, water was an essential part of the relief efforts during the initial phase of the two emergencies,” Doueihy says.In many temporary settlements, which sprang up as people left their unsafe homes, running water and safe drinking water were simply not available. People also lacked access to toilets and sanitation facilities.Along with first aid, emergency tents and other critical supplies, therefore, the Moroccan Red Crescent, the IFRC and other partner National Societies delivered hygiene kits and installed temporary WASH facilities (toilets, showers, water points and incinerators) for people living in temporary settings.In Libya, meanwhile, the Libyan Red Crescent — along with partners in the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement — addressed the immediate water, sanitation, and hygiene needs by distributing more than 240,000 bottles of waters and roughly 6000 hygiene kits, among other things.Other National Societies supported the efforts. The German Red Cross, for example, supported the installation of two water treatment plants, which were later replaced with filtration systems that better respond to evolving needs. To date, five simple desalination plants have been installed, in addition to the maintenance of groundwater wells, among other efforts.The next big challenge, Doueihy says, is to help communities develop longer-term solutions.“We provided clean drinking water for the affected population, but thegradual shiftfrom emergency phaseto a long-term recovery phase means that sustainable solutions – such as repairing damaged infrastructure – are needed to restore water security andthe communities’ ability to access clean water.”Water security is not a luxury in the face of disaster, it's a lifeline. By prioritizing clean water access in short-term and long-term disaster response, we can save lives, prevent disease outbreaks, and empower communities to rebuild.-Support the people of Morocco and Libya on their way to recovery by donating to the two Emergency Appeals:Morocco: Earthquake andLibya: Storm Daniel.

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07/03/2024 |

Press release

Six months later: 'Morocco remembers, so should we'— IFRC's call for continued support

Geneva/Beirut/Marrakech, 7 March 2024: As we reach the six-month mark since the devastating earthquake struck the Moroccan High Atlas Mountains, the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) amplifies its call for urgent and ongoing support to meet the persistent needs of affected communities. The earthquake, with a magnitude of 6.8, occurred on 8 September 2023, leaving thousands still battling the absence of stable shelter, clean water, and essential sanitation facilities.In response to this disaster, the Moroccan Red Crescent Society (MRCS), with the support of the IFRC, has delivered aid to over 60,300 people, navigating challenging circumstances with resilience and determination. With 450 staff and over 8,500 volunteers, the MRCS has been instrumental in rehabilitating 138 water points across 16 localities, distributing over 5,411 hygiene kits, and ensuring access to emergency shelters and psychosocial support throughout the affected regions. Their unwavering commitment highlights the MRCS's auxiliary role to the Moroccan Government's response and recovery efforts.Sami Fakhouri, Head of Delegation, IFRC in Morocco and Tunisia, emphasizes the importance of collective action in these trying times:“Our response to this earthquake has shown the power of humanity in the face of adversity. However, the road to recovery is long, and the needs of the affected communities remain immense. Six months on, Morocco's people carry the memory of that day, and it's incumbent upon us all to continue remembering and to act. Now more than ever, we must continue to stand in solidarity with the people of Morocco to rebuild not just their homes but their lives.”The earthquake's aftermath has underscored the critical need for shelters that are both winterized and waterproof, capable of enduring the region's harsh winters and rainy seasons, alongside the pressing need for improved access to clean water and sanitation facilities to avert health crises. The demand for non-food items like blankets, clothing, and hygiene products remains high, reflecting the diverse and pressing needs of communities on their path to recovery.Abdel Salam Makroumy, Director General of MRCS, reflects on the resilience shown and the road ahead:“Working alongside local authorities has been crucial in sustaining our humanitarian relief efforts. But our journey from relief to recovery is paved with the determination and heart of our volunteers and the communities we serve. As we look to the future, our goal is not only to recover from this disaster but to build back better, ensuring that our communities are more resilient and better prepared for any future challenges.”Despite the efforts of MRCS and its partners, the IFRC's Emergency Appeal for the MRCS response, targeting CHF 75 million, has so far raised 35% of its goal. The MRCS and IFRC extend their gratitude to partners and donors for their generous contributions.The IFRC calls on the international community, donors, and partners to redouble their support and help bridge this gap through flexible and long-term funding. Only through sustained, collective effort can we ensure that the people of Morocco receive the support they need to recover and thrive in the aftermath of this devastating earthquake.More information To fund the emergency appeal and support the people of Morocco, visit the IFRC website.For b-roll footage, visit the IFRC newsroom.To request an interview, contact: [email protected] Geneva:Tommaso Della Longa: +41 79 708 43 67Mrinalini Santhanam: +41 76 381 50 06In Beirut:Mey Alsayegh: +961 3 229 352

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09/02/2024 |

Article

Post earthquake, Red Cross China helps people heal and rebuild

Justmore than one month ago, a 6.2-magnitude earthquake struck Linxia Prefecture of Gansu Province in China. The quake struck at midnight on December 18, 2023, as people were sleeping through a cold winter night,destroying homes and claiming lives.With its well-developed disaster preparedness capacity and an established cooperation mechanism with its provincial chapters, the Red Cross Society of China (RCSC) responded immediately, swiftly carrying out rescue and relief work as it raced with time to save lives.The first batch of relief items dispatched by the RCSC arrived within the first 12 hours after the earthquake.In coming hours and days,more than 20 Red Cross rescue teams in five categories – from medical relief to psychological support – were dispatched to the disaster area.The teams carried out comprehensive response work,including search and rescue, basic aid material, psychological support, provision of meals and toilets, construction of resettlement sites, as well as transportation and distribution of disaster relief materials.Within ten days of the earthquake, the people affected by the earthquake had moved into clean and warm temporary shelters and schools had resumed classes.Now, with the rapid response complete, the operation has moved to the post-disaster recovery and reconstruction stage.Mental health: a key part of recoveryWith the gradual normalization of people’s lives, some places in the village havestarted to offer skill training courses such as welding, elderly care and housekeeping, with training subsidies provided. The training sessions aim to make people more confident and capable of rebuilding their homes and livelihoods.Another key building block in the recovery is helping people adjust to the massive disruption the earthquake has had in their lives. This is one reason why volunteers regularly organize counselling sessions, as well as fun, lively activities, and games for children in many of the resettlement areas."Are you coming back tomorrow?" onechild asks Chunhui Ji, a team leader from the Red Cross's Gansu Mingrui psychological service team after one such joyful session of games at one of the resettlement sites."Crisis intervention is an important part of post-disaster recovery,” saysChunhui Ji. “If timely counselling is not provided, it will affect the psychological and even physical health of the affected people long after the disaster, especially affecting the growth of young people.”The difference the counselling is making can be seen in the way the children interact with each other before and after the sessions. One small boy — frightened by the earthquake and its aftermath — was reluctant to play or talk. After the counselling with the psychological team member, however, his nervousness eased a lot and he began to actively join in the games with his friends."Disasters like earthquakes are sudden with serious damage," saidTao Tian, a team member of the psychological rescue team and doctor of Ningxia Ningan Hospital. “Throughout the disaster and post-disaster periods, people may exhibit varying degrees of psychological stress at different times, requiring tailored intervention techniques to help restore mental health.”The RCSC attached great importance to the mental well-being of the affected people, giving priority to the psychological counselling of adolescents and children.Responding to the imperative need, 25 members from Gansu and Ningxia Red Cross Psychological rescue teams had been fully operational at the resettlement sites since the third day after the earthquake.“People are exposed to extremely distressing events when disasters, such as an earthquake, happen to them,”says Olga Dzhumaeva, Head of IFRC East Asia Delegation. “Addressing people’s mental health is a vital part of what we do during and after a disaster. Psychosocial support to affected people, including children, is key to humanitarian response, bringing priceless impact on the life of people who are in critical need.”Some information from Xinhua News Agency

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03/01/2024 |

Press release

Red Cross swings into action immediately after Japan earthquake

Tokyo/Beijing/Geneva, 3 January 2024 - Responding to a devastating magnitude 7.6 earthquake and subsequent tsunami in the Ishikawa Prefecture, the Japanese Red Cross Society (JRCS) has mobilized swiftly. The events of New Year’s Day have caused extensive damage, disrupting power, water supplies, communications, and transportation. Tragically, at least sixty-two lives have been lost, with many more injured. In the immediate aftermath, JRCS's nationwide network was activated, with staff from the Tokyo headquarters rapidly deployed for assessment and coordination. Local chapters, supported by Red Cross hospitals and Blood Centres, initiated response actions. Echoing the spirit of solidarity, neighboring JRCS branches have dispatched additional relief teams. Nobuaki Sato, Deputy Director General of the International Department of the JRCS, said: “The earthquake shook the country to its maximum intensity and triggered the highest tsunami alert, and people could not help but be reminded of the Great East Japan Earthquake and Tsunami 13 years ago. We did not encounter a major tsunami, but there is a long way to go to promote the more rapid evacuation of people, search and rescue for missing people, support for evacuees and their recovery. The Japanese Red Cross Society will stay close to the people affected and provide support.” The JRCS’s robust disaster preparedness, marked by a well-orchestrated deployment of resources and personnel, has been crucial in this rapid response. This readiness is vital in a country like Japan, frequently confronted with seismic activities. Alexander Matheou, Regional Director for Asia Pacific of the IFRC, remarked: “We are with the Japanese Red Cross Society during these trying times, especially those displaced and traumatized by the earthquake. Although the Asia-Pacific Region is prone to frequent disasters, it has also proven itself to be leading the way in life-saving prevention, preparedness, resilience, and humanitarian innovation, sending us a strong message about the urgent need to strengthen humanitarian responses to disasters and crises. We thank our teams on the ground for the swift response, and we acknowledge that the impact will be psychological not just physical. The IFRC stands ready to support.” The IFRC, through its East Asia Delegation, remains closely engaged with the JRCS, ensuring a coordinated approach in addressing both the immediate and future challenges posed by this disaster. More information: To request an interview, please contact:[email protected]  In Kaula Lumpur: Afrhill Rances: +60 19 271 3641 In Geneva: Tommaso Della Longa: +41 79 708 43 67 Mrinalini Santhanam: +41 76 381 50 06

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05/02/2024 |

Press release

Türkiye-Syria Earthquakes: IFRC highlights critical funding shortfall in recovery efforts

Geneva/Ankara/Damascus, 5 February 2024: Marking one year since the catastrophic earthquakes that devastated Türkiye and Syria, the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) today calls for renewed solidarity to meet pressing humanitarian and recovery needs, highlighting a critical funding shortfall in its ongoing humanitarian response.Despite reaching 14 million earthquake-affected people (10.5 million in Türkiye and 3.5 million in Syria) through the tireless efforts of 80,000 volunteers, the IFRCEmergency Appealsstill face alarmingfunding gaps:65% for Türkiye and 43% for Syria. One year on, the needs of those affected byone of the century's deadliest natural disasters remain persistent. The earthquakes, which claimed over 55,000 lives, have had devastating impacts on people’s lives.One year on, Türkiye is on the slow road to recovery, but communities in Syria are struggling to rebuild their lives.Jessie Thomson, Head of IFRC Delegation in Türkiye, said:“Nowis not the time to scale down. In fact, we need to redouble our efforts. Despite important steps forward, the long road to recovery remains. The affected people now require support in rebuilding their businesses, recovering their lost livelihoods, and beginning the slow journey back to normalcy.”In Türkiye, the Turkish Red Crescenthas been instrumental in providing daily necessities, includingover 426 million hot meals and free medical servicesviamobile health clinics. Furthermore, througha cash relief program supported by the IFRCnetwork and international partners, over460,000 familieshave received cash to meet their basic needs. Notably, this program has also extended support tosmall businesses and farmers, while over207,000 peoplehavereceived psychosocial support.In Syria, many affected people were already living in a dire situation, due to over 13 years of instability and conflict. Most cities are still in ruins and basic infrastructure is severely damaged.Mads Brinch Hansen, Head of IFRC Delegation in Syria, said:“Our collective efforts withthe Syrian Arab Red Crescenthas been pivotal in reaching over 3.5 million people. Yet, the scale of needs remains immense in Syria, with millionsstill grappling withextreme poverty and the daunting task ofrebuildingtheir lives amidst ongoing conflict anddestruction.”The Syrian Arab Red Crescent continues to be a critical lifeline, providing around 23 million humanitarian services and volunteers continue to provide people with food, water, basic relief items, health care, and psychosocial support.About the IFRC’s Appeal:The IFRC launched two Emergency Appeals, one forTürkiye and one forSyria, amounting to CHF 500 million; both are still significantly underfunded (funding gap of 65 per cent in Türkiye and 43 per cent in Syria). Further support and funding are urgently needed to make a significant impact on the lives of those affected and empower people to rebuild their lives and contribute to their local economies in both countries.For more information, audio visual material or to coordinate an interview, please contact:[email protected] Ankara:Miriam Atallah, +90 53 091 70224In Beirut:Mey Al Sayegh: +961 761 74468In Geneva:Tommaso Della Longa +41797084367Mrinalini Santhanam +41 76 381 5006Andrew Thomas +41 76 367 6587B-roll footage and images of volunteers responding are available at the IFRC newsroom.'

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07/01/2024 |

Article

Afghanistan: Three months after Herat earthquake, an urgent need for shelter

By Mir Abdul Tawab Razavy and Rachel Punitha The earthquakes that struck the western Afghan state of Herat in October 2023 destroyed homes and claimed lives over a wide swath of mountainous terrain — from the state’s main city, Herat, all the way to mountain villages miles away. The epicentre was recorded near a mountain range just west of Herat state, resulting in widespread destruction in more than 380 villages. Many of the lives lost were women and children. Surviving family members found themselves thrust into the harsh reality of loss and despair, with winter approaching and their homes in ruins. Once the proud caretakers of small flocks of sheep, families now face the daunting challenge of rebuilding their lives and livelihoods. But their most immediate plea is for safe, warm shelter as temperatures continue to drop. “We need help with rebuilding our homes,” villagers consistently tell Afghanistan Red Crescent and IFRC teams that visit the villages and offer a wide range of support. More support urgently needed The Afghan Red Crescent, along with the IFRC, have been working together to help the people rebuild their homes and make sense of what has happened. Afghan Red Crescent has deployed over 200 staff and volunteers, reaching more than 112,000 people across 40 villages with emergency shelter, household items, food, health services, and WASH items. The food assistance they’ve provided has reached over 7,300 households, whille cash assistance valued at more than $US 22,000 (AFN 1,568,000) has been provided to 410 families. Health services, including mental health and psychosocial support, have been extended to over 12,000 people, supported by the Danish Red Cross, Norwegian Red Cross, and IFRC. At the early onset of the earthquakes, more than 15,000 emergency shelter items (tarpaulins or tents) were distributed, while Red Cross Red Crescent teams’ staff and volunteers work round the clock to work out proper permanent shelter solutions. Since then, shelter engineers have been deployed to the areas and are assessing their shelter needs for immediate procurement. In collaboration with ARCS, the IFRC has mobilized additional financial support for Herat through its network and the larger Emergency Appeal for the Afghanistan Humanitarian Crisis. Meanwhile, IFRC-DREFhas increased its contribution to the emergency appeal by an additional CHF 750,000, raising the total IFRC-DREF contribution to the Afghanistan crisis to CHF 2,500,000. But more is still needed to meet the needs identified by the appeal and to ensure people in Herat state have what they need to get through nights of bitter cold. Digging to stay warm In one mountainside village, Abdul Qayoum, is grappling with the responsibility of four children, including two very young toddlers. As their tent offered little defense against the biting cold and relentless winds, especially during the night, his children have been shivering night after night. With no other options, Abdul Qayoum began laboring tirelessly, digging into the unforgiving ground in a desperate attempt to create a more secure space, into which he could settle in with his children so that the winds howl past them. His eyes reflected a mixture of determination and despair while he explained his family’s plight. In this village, IFRC teams also witnessed a group of mothers and grandmothers who were attempting to put up a tent with their bare hands in the cold. They were hoping that it would withstand the fierce, night winds. More resilient shelter Afghan Red Crescent and IFRC shelter teams have been working urgently along with other humanitarian organisations to approve a shelter design that can be constructed locally and will be able to withstand further shocks. “We will be including volunteers from villages and local masons from the cities in our training sessions on how to mount proper bracing for the walls of their new shelters,” says an IFRC Shelter specialist deployed to Herat. “The homes that were destroyed in the earthquake were all made of mud or clay and were built by hand. Unfortunately, that is why they were reduced to rubble so fast. “Now we want to make sure that they know how to include metal or even wood bracings in their walls and roofs so that their homes can withstand a greater degree of shock.” ‘My only hope’ In the meantime, people are trying to maintain hope even as they grieve for what they have lost. 45-year-old Halima [not her real name], says she is able to enjoy some warmth for a short while, when she cooks in her tent as a means to keep warm. She admits this is not very safe, but she has no other option. Halima had adopted a young boy from her community as she did not have any children of her own. This is one of the many ways that people look out for each other in the community, she says. Sadly, her adopted son lost his life in the earthquake. “He was my only hope,” she says, with an expression of deep anguish.

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12/12/2023 |

Podcast

Alexander Matheou: Flipping a common humanitarian narrative about a vast, diverse and dynamic region

In this episode, Alexander Matheou challenges a common humanitarian narrative about the Asia Pacific region being “disaster prone.” Yes, it is particularly vulnerable to climate-related events — and it has more than its share of volcanos and earthquakes — but it’s also leading the way in life-saving prevention, preparedness and humanitarian innovation. As IFRC’s regional director for the Asia Pacific region, Matheou talks about the opportunities and leadership this vast, dynamic and diverse region offers the humanitarian world.

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08/12/2023 |

Article

Morocco: Three months after quake, Red Crescent teams help communities prepare for winter

Three months after a 6.8 magnitude earthquake hit Morocco on September 8 — killing and injuring thousands of people and causing widespread destruction — the Moroccan Red Crescent is still working to help thousands of people, many of whom are still living in temporary shelters and tents as winter in the Atlas Mountains approaches. In the immediate aftermath of the quake, Moroccan Red Crescent (MRCS) teams were on the ground immediately, coordinating closely with the IFRC and local authorities to assess the situation, support wth search and rescue and provide help to affected people. Among other things, MRCS has provided first aid and psychosocial support, helped transport injured people to hospitals, evacuated people from damaged buildings and helped in offering dignified burial management. Other National Societies have also lended a hand as well. With support from, the Qatar Red Crescent, for example, MRCS has distributed tents, mattresses, blankets and kitchen kits in many remote mountain communities. On 12 September, the IFRClaunched an Emergency Appeal for 100 million Swiss francsto scale up the relief efforts of the Moroccan Red Crescent. The appeal followed an allocation of1 million Swiss francsfrom the IFRC'sDisaster Response Emergency Fund (DREF)to support MRCS actions on the ground. The funding has helped the Moroccan Red Crescent provide health services, clean water, sanitation and hygiene, shelter, relief items, food, livelihoods support, protection and community engagement activities. That work continues. But the needs are still great and communities are still vulnerable. The photos below offer a glimpse into the the kinds of support given so far and the challenging situation people are facing as high-altitude, mountain communities prepare for winter. Read more here about what assistance this funding is supporting. Still today, the trauma of the quake lingers in peoples’ minds. In Ighermane, a village in the mountain of the Chichaoua province, families are anxious not only about aftershocks, but also about how to protect themselves from the cold and feed themselves over the winter months. Temperatures have dropped significantly and food stocks are at their lowest. The earthquake also left families in many villages like Ighermanewithout toilets, access to running water or facilities to bathe ordo laundry. Red Crescent teams also worked with community members in many places such as Tagadirt, which was nearly completely destroyed by the quake, to install latrines, showers and more water points to improve living conditions for people who lost their homes. Since the earthquake struck, hundreds of supply trucks — full of tents, blankets, mattresses, jericans, clothes and food — have been dispatched to the earthquake-affected provinces of Al Haouz, Chichawa and Taroudant. The IFRC and the MRCS continue to engage with communities, to listen to their needs so they can offer the most effective recovery support. The IFRC and MRCS continue to listen to the people of the Atlas Mountains in order to help them weather the winter, prepare for potential future shocks, and ultimately to get back to life as it was before this catastrophic quake.

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10/11/2023 |

Press release

IFRC scales up aid efforts in response to Nepal’s Karnali Earthquake: Emergency appeal launched

Kathmandu/ Kuala Lumpur/ Geneva, 10 November 2023 — The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) has launched an emergency appeal for 5 million Swiss Francs to scale up relief and response efforts of the Nepal Red Cross Society. Last Friday, a 6.4 magnitude earthquake struck western Nepal just before midnight, causing significant damage and distress. The tremor, centred in Ramidanda, Jajarkot district of the Karnali Province, is the most recent in a series of seismic events affecting the region this year. It is estimated that 38,000 families have been affected by the earthquake, including approximately 30,000 homes destroyed or damaged. Since the disaster hit, the Nepal Red Cross Society’s (NRCS), with support from the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) and its partners, have been working with local authorities. They are supporting search and rescue operations, providing first aid, psychosocial support, ambulance services and immediate relief assistance to those affected. Immediately post the earthquake, IFRC allocated CHF 775,395 from its Disaster Response Emergency Fund (DREF) to support the affected families. In-country Red Cross and Red Crescent national societies and partners have also pledged their support in this crucial time. Herve Gazeau, Programme Coordinator IFRC and spokesperson based in Kathmandu, said: “The Nepal Red Cross Society has been on the ground since the first day. They are delivering critical emergency services and relief support in the impacted districts that are rather difficult to access in the mountainous areas, with support from IFRC and its partners. As we are racing against the time and with a sense of urgency to reach the most vulnerable, the IFRC is making an appeal to support the earthquake-affected families, especially given the arrival of winter in Nepal.” “IFRC and its partners pledge their continuous support to the NRCS throughout the process as they work to assist the affected families in the region.” Nepal Red Cross Society is working closely with Nepali authorities, using its established relationships, to speed up aid delivery. Current efforts include distributing essential items like tents, blankets, and mattresses, and preparing for any urgent blood supply needs in hospitals. The emotional well-being of those who have lost loved ones is also being addressed through psychosocial support by Nepal Red Cross Society volunteers and response teams. Currently, immediate assistance is underway, yet thousands of affected families remain in open spaces with no alternate shelter and in fear of another tremor. With the onset of winter, relief shelters and essential warm items have become imperative. More information For further details on our response to the Nepal earthquake, visit the Nepal Red Cross Society website or the IFRC appeal page. To request an interview, please contact: [email protected]     In Nepal: Herve Gazeau: +977 1 4285843 In Kuala Lumpur: Afrhill Rances: +60 19 271 3641 In Geneva:  Tommaso Della Longa: +41 79 708 43 67  Mrinalini Santhamam: +41 76 381 50 06 

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