Disaster Risk Reduction

The frequency and intensity of extreme weather events has increased in recent decades. Disaster risk reduction and management helps minimize risks and save human lives.

In close cooperation with partner organizations, AWO International takes important disaster risk reduction measures in preparation for extreme natural events. Goal is to minimize the negative consequences of these events, strengthen the resilience of the affected people and reduce their vulnerability.

The picture shows a woman working in the field. She seems to be demonstrating something. In the background are several people watching.

AfricaUganda

Climate-active and crisis-proof: model villages in Uganda focus on sustainable agriculture

Together with our partner organization AFARD, AWO International empowers small-scale farmers in northwestern Uganda – through climate-resilient agriculture, cooperative farming groups, and innovative cultivation methods.

South AsiaNepal

Strong communities instead of dangerous paths: opportunities for families in Nepal

In Makwanpur, one of the poorest regions of Nepal, we are working with the local partner organization Women Skill Creation Centre (WoSCC) to empower people. We provide information about safe migration and create new income opportunities - through training, education and practical help for micro-enterprises. This enables families to stay in the area and shape their own future.

The picture shows a woman wearing a headscarf and holding a small boy.

South AsiaBangladesh

Forgotten crises: Supporting the Rohingya and host communities in Bangladesh

In August 2017, an outbreak of massive violence in Myanmar's Rakhine state forced the Rohingya, a stateless minority, to flee to neighbouring Bangladesh. More than a million Rohingya refugees still live in camps near Cox's Bazar. The effects of climate change are making conditions on the ground even more difficult - this is where our project with local partner GUK comes in.

In the picture, three women are sitting outside a house. They are talking and laughing.

Central AmericaEl SalvadorGuatemala

Disaster Risk Reduction for All

People with disabilities often have less access to education and social participation. Discrimination and exclusion make their daily lives even more difficult. During natural disasters in Central America, this can be life-threatening. In Guatemala and El Salvador, AWO International is committed to inclusive disaster preparedness and comprehensive support for people with disabilities in their daily lives.

The picture shows two women holding a poster. On the poster you can see a self-created table.

AfricaUganda

Shaping the future in Uganda with community and sustainability

The people of Otuke, a rural region in northern Uganda, are struggling with malnutrition, social inequality and the effects of the climate crisis. Women are particularly affected. This local project strengthens the resilience of families and promotes sustainable agriculture and financial security.

Eine Frau steht vor einem Feld und lächelt in die Kamera.

Southeast AsiaPhilippines

Disaster risk reduction in the Philippines

The geographical location of the Philippines makes the country vulnerable to natural disasters such as earthquakes, typhoons, volcanic eruptions and floods. In addition, climate change increases the frequency and intensity of natural disasters. Proactive preparedness allows people to better prepare for these climate-related risks and minimises the impact on the country's life and infrastructure. In cooperation with the local partner organisation CONCERN, we promote disaster risk reduction in the Philippines.

A smiling woman stands in front of a wooden machine that processes the abaca fiber.

Southeast AsiaPhilippines

Philippine farmers switch to green production

Together with the local partner organisation ECOWEB, AWO International supports smallholder households and strengthens the local capacities of the agricultural industry in Sibagat. Filipino farmers are introduced to the use of natural materials and practices that are climate-friendly and sustainable in order to protect the environment, improve their livelihoods and reduce poverty. In this way, local capacities can be strengthened and the impacts of extreme weather events and climate change can be better managed.

Two women are standing in front of a tent, which is their temporary shelter.

Southeast AsiaIndonesia

Disaster Risk Reduction and Reconstruction after Earthquake in Indonesia

On 21 November 2022, a 5.6 magnitude earthquake struck the southwest of Cianjur district in West Java, Indonesia. The quake claimed more than 600 lives and more than 100,000 people were forced to flee. Together with the local partner organisation YEU, AWO International supports the people in reconstruction and integrates disaster preparedness measures for the affected village communities.

South AsiaNepal

Disaster Risk Reduction and Climate Change Adaptation in Nepal

Nepal is one of the most vulnerable countries in the world to the effects of climate change. According to the Global Climate Risk Index 2020, Nepal ranks 10th among the most vulnerable countries. Every year, climate events such as floods and landslides, droughts and forest fires, and heat and cold waves lead to loss of livelihoods, especially in remote rural areas. This is where our Disaster Risk Reduction and Climate Change Adaptation project comes in.

The picture shows women sitting in a circle on the floor. There is a bowl of rice in the middle, and some of them are pouring more rice into it.

South AsiaBangladesh

Good harvests instead of climate crisis

Northern Bangladesh is one of the poorest regions in the country. The climate crisis is an additional threat to people's livelihoods. As a result, more and more families are leaving their home villages. This is where our project with our partner organisation Gana Unnayan Kendra comes in. Together, we are creating future prospects for families living on river islands.

Two women are filling a sack with corn and laughing.

Central AmericaGuatemala

Good harvest despite climate crisis

Climate change is threatening the livelihoods of people in Guatemala's 'dry corridor'. Together with our partner organisation Utz Che', we are strengthening disaster response, promoting sustainable farming methods and supporting local income development, particularly for indigenous women.