Myanmar – Supporting people in the aftermath of the earthquake

(ANS – Min Gun) – The situation in Min Gun, in the Sagaing region, remains critical weeks after the magnitude 7.7 earthquake that struck the area. What began as an emergency response has now become an ongoing challenge: supporting thousands of people who are still trying to rebuild their lives amidst great instability.

Currently, between 4,000 and 5,000 people — around 1,600 families — are living in a makeshift camp near a Buddhist monastery. Their homes were destroyed by the earthquake and, since then, they have been surviving in small huts, without adequate access to basic services. The situation is exacerbated by the political context, which hinders access to resources and limits the arrival of humanitarian aid.

“Every day is a struggle for survival,” say the Salesians in Myanmar, who work closely with the community. Jobs are scarce, and although some young people try to go out to work to support their families, the prevailing political instability makes this difficult and dangerous.

In this context, the response of the Salesian Family at an international level – coordinated by the Don Bosco Network and with the participation of Bosco Global – remains crucial. Thanks also to the emergency and fundraising campaign launched by Bosco Global last year, it is now possible to continue supporting, alongside other Salesian NGOs, the project providing care for families living in the camps. Thanks to this networking, initiatives are being developed to assist the affected population: However, as time has passed, the flow of aid has diminished. Whilst there was a strong mobilisation in the first few days following the earthquake, access to the camp is now more difficult and fewer and fewer organisations are able to intervene due to restrictions and risks in the area.

Distribution of basic foodstuffs such as rice, pulses, oil and noodles. Healthcare, particularly for children and the elderly, with support for healthcare staff within the camp. Educational spaces for over 500 children, with 13 teachers involved. Distribution of toys and emotional support to over 400 children under the age of 7, aiding their recovery from trauma.

Despite the difficulties, the Salesian presence continues to closely support the camp’s population, in coordination with local leaders and following the necessary protocols to access the area.

At Bosco Global, we continue to support this process alongside the Don Bosco Network, making this support possible thanks to the commitment of so many people who mobilised during the emergency, convinced that in humanitarian emergencies it is essential to sustain life and support those who need it most.

Source: Salesianos.info