Country: Myanmar Source: International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies Yangon/Kuala Lumpur/Geneva, 27 March 2026 – One year after a devastating earthquake struck central Myanmar, communities and local responders continue to show extraordinary strength as they rebuild amid overlapping crises. Even as thousands of families work to recover from the destruction of homes, schools, and health facilities, ongoing conflict, economic challenges, flooding, and extreme heat have compounded hardship for millions across the country. In the face of these challenges, IFRC support has been critical in helping the Myanmar Red Cross Society (MRCS) and its network of thousands of trained volunteers to remain a lifeline for communities, often reaching the most vulnerable families in distant and hard to access areas. Support by the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) and 32 National Societies worldwide, as well as other partners and donors, has brought vital assistance to more than 213, 652 people across 31 townships. Local volunteers at the heart of a community-driven recovery From the earliest hours of the disaster, MRCS staff and volunteers mobilised to provide first aid, health care, food and safe water, shelter items, and essential household supplies – often travelling from all corners of the country to assist those in need. “One year after the March 2025 earthquake, communities in Myanmar continue to show remarkable strength and dignity, ” said Nadia Khoury, Head of Delegation, IFRC Myanmar. “ I have just travelled to activity sites in 16 different villages and wards in several of the earthquake-affected areas and was impressed to see how the Myanmar Red Cross has worked with community committees, with village leaders, and through its volunteers to really address the biggest needs of the communities in an inclusive, participatory, and dignified manner, ” she added. Flexible assistance: restoring choice, dignity, and faster recovery A cornerstone of the response has been multipurpose assistance, which has allowed families to choose what matters most as they start to rebuild their lives. After receiving emergency shelter, health support, and essential items, many used grants to repair homes, buy food, replace lost belongings, or pay medical fees. Through MRCS’s strong community networks, multipurpose assistance has been delivered effectively, including in hard-to-access locations. While working in these locations can be challenging and requires careful management, MRCS has put strong systems in place to ensure funds are used safely and effectively. Over the past year, the IFRC also facilitated using new digital tools to improve transparency, strengthen community feedback, and ensure assistance reaches those most in need, when they need it. Community-led shelters enabling safer, dignified living In parallel, the Myanmar Red Cross has enabled hundreds of families to build safe, locally appropriate homes through a community-led shelter approach, with technical assistance and guidance from MRCS and IFRC. Using grants, families select from preferred designs that meet safety standards and incorporate Build Back Safer techniques, including rainwater harvesting, ventilation, sanitation facilities, and solar power. These shelters are built with local materials and enhanced to withstand future hazards such as earthquakes, flooding, and cyclones. Massive needs remain as recovery continues Despite significant progress, thousands of families still require support to rebuild livelihoods, homes, and essential services. Reconstructing water and sanitation systems, restoring access to health care, and reestablishing sustainable income opportunities will require time and continued investment. “There’s still so much to be done this year and in 2027. We’ve had a remarkable response from the international community. The MRCS has delivered with professionalism, with expertise in a timely manner and we look forward to working together to keep assisting those affected by the earthquake and other vulnerable people here in Myanmar, ” said Jonathan Brass, Operations Manager, IFRC Myanmar Delegation. IFRC calls for sustained support The IFRC Emergency Appeal for Myanma r remains only 29. 4% funded, limiting the ability to scale up recovery activities that communities urgently need. Additional contributions are essential to ensure families can continue rebuilding with dignity and hope. “Recovery is far from over. Now we look forward to the recovery phase through livelihood, additional integrated shelter and sanitation and embedding sustainability and disaster preparedness in our community work, ” added Nadia Khoury. Note to editors: For more information or to request an interview, please contact: [email protected] In Kuala Lumpur: Afrhill Rances, +60 19 271 3641 In Geneva: Tommaso Della Longa, +41 79 708 4367
One year after Myanmar Earthquake, Local Responders Drive Recovery as International Support remains Critical | IFRC
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