The devastating earthquakes that struck western Nepal on November 3, 2023 (18:02 GMT), had severe consequences for already vulnerable populations. The earthquakes, measuring magnitudes of 6.4 and 5.6, affected 13 districts and resulted in the destruction or damage of around 62,012 houses, impacting approximately 300,000 individuals directly. Among them, 250,000 people, including 80,000 children, urgently require humanitarian assistance due to the destruction of their homes. The earthquake resulted in the tragic loss of 153 lives, with 356 individuals sustaining injuries. The earthquake strained an already fragile infrastructure including water and sanitation facilities, schools and healthcare systems. The most severely affected districts, Jajarkot and Rukum West account for over 99% of the total number of houses rendered inhabitable, with a significant population of impoverished and marginalized individuals. This has precipitated a pressing humanitarian crisis, necessitating comprehensive assistance across all humanitarian sectors. Despite ongoing efforts by humanitarian organizations to provide shelter, food, medical supplies, and WASH items, two months post-event, numerous challenges persist, and people continue to grapple with meeting their basic needs in the disaster-stricken areas.
In response to humanitarian needs Medici Perla Pace in partnership with the Community Development Forum (CDF) Nepal provided the winterization support targeting 157 families in areas most affected by the earthquake. The overall objective of the response was to protect the lives of the affected population from harsh winter by providing winterization items
157 poor and vulnerable families, who required winterization assistance, have increased access to winterization items, which allowed them to be prepared for the winter season and protect their lives. The post-distribution interview with the beneficiaries confirms that 99% of recipient families were satisfied with the received items and their quality. We have received positive feedback from beneficiaries expressing gratitude for the winterization items. CDF has built good and strong relationships with governmental authorities and agencies, local communities and other humanitarian organizations.
