ACT Alliance demonstrates its value as the leading faith-based alliance in humanitarian response by working with faith and humanitarian actors at the global, regional, national, and community levels. ACT harnesses the combined strength of its members in delivering humanitarian response at scale and with considerable reach through joint programming approaches.
We commit to an effective ecumenical response that saves lives and maintains dignity, irrespective of race, gender, belief, nationality, ethnicity, or political persuasion. Humanitarian needs define our priorities and the humanitarian principles of humanity, impartiality, neutrality, and independence guide our actions. We remain committed to strengthening the resilience of affected communities and to being accountable to people and communities affected by a crisis. The ACT Alliance Secretariat is certified against the Core Humanitarian Standard on Quality and Accountability and is committed to the Sphere Humanitarian Charter and Minimum Standards in Disaster Response.
Emergency Steering Committee successfully established, activated more than 30 times since inception with over US$67 million mobilised since 2022 for ACT’s Humanitarian Appeals.
ACT Emergency Appeal coverage (the total amount of funds generated versus budget) has 02 risen from 28% to 46% from 2018 to 2023.
Systematic approach to appeal management – inception meetings, coordination roundtable
discussions, enhanced monitoring, results frameworks and closing meetings all introduced 03 with a focus on Quality & Accountability.
Extensive consultation with members and forums on locally led response within ACT Alliance 04 has led to a Pledge of Commitments which is being launched at the General Assembly 2024.
Through its national, regional and sub-regional forums ACT Alliance provides humanitarian and emergency preparedness support to local communities helping them during a crisis and to become more resilient.
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The Rapid Response Fund is an innovative funding mechanism designed to put local communities at the centre of decision-making and is recognised as one of few such funding mechanisms across the sector.
The RRF provides valuable opportunities to demonstrate the niche of faith actors in humanitarian response as we work closely with local ACT members and their community networks. On average, the RRF funds 20 emergencies annually and responses are implemented within six months.
The primary mechanism for large scale or global emergencies, including protracted crises: ACT Alliance raises an appeal to its membership with both requesting and funding members co-owning the process. Appeals are open for funding during their entire project period and accessible to both national and international ACT Alliance members.
Consortia represent a new funding mechanism for ACT Alliance. As part of Emergency Preparedness planning, consortiums are established before a disaster strikes and consortium members share a vision and strategic focus. Members self-organise and develop their own financial management models and programme strategies supported by the EPRP process and tools.
Emergency preparedness and response planning is integral to the strengthening of ACT Alliance’s capacity to respond effectively in emergencies through joint programming.
ACT national and regional forums develop emergency preparedness and response plans (EPRPs), working collaboratively to understand potential disaster risks and plan how to respond to emergencies quickly and effectively. Forum EPRPs are accessible by members through an online platform, which can be viewed by other members who may be interested to support them. ACT Forums use specific ACT guidelines and tools to support the process of developing an EPRP which is reviewed regularly.
As part of the holistic and integrated approach to humanitarian response, development and advocacy, ACT’s emergency preparedness and humanitarian response is supported by stronger humanitarian coordination and advocacy with stakeholders and duty bearers.
In the current strategic period our advocacy focuses on three banner commitments to the Grand Bargain at the World Humanitarian Summit where ACT has made significant investments and where member engagement is quite strong: the localisation agenda and the primary role of national/local members and local faith actors; demonstrating the important role of faith actors in humanitarian response; and strengthening of cash-based programming across the humanitarian sector.
In Adamawa State, Nigeria, the rapid rise of floodwaters following the breach of the Kiri Dam in Adamawa State and subsequent runoff from the Cameroonian highlands caught residents off guard. The flood, caused by the overflow of local rivers in Numan due to continuous heavy rainfall, hit communities such as Kwakwambe, Lure, Nbalang, Imburu, and Bare. In Nigeria, the floods have killed almost 500 persons (Africa News) with many also reported missing. Five million people face critical food insecurity in Borno, Adamawa and Yobe (BAY) states due to flood damage to croplands at the height of the lean season. The council of churches of Nigeria is planning to respond to the affected with Rapid Response funds. RRF 14 2024 Nigeria floods
Sierra Leone has faced severe flooding caused by sudden, unusual, unprecedented heavy and prolonged rainfall as of 8th October 2024 (Relief Web 16th October 2024). According to the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), the rainfall is expected to continue up to the end of October 2024. The floods were exacerbated by the overflow of Bumbuna Dam in Tonkolili in Sierra Leone, which overflowed beyond its capacity due to excessive rainfall leading to flooding downstream, displacing 50 communities and causing significant property loss NDMA SL. Sierra Leone has also received flood waters originating from heavy rains experienced in the Futa Jallon highlands in Guinea overflowing and emptying into the Atlantic Ocean through Sierra Leone, leading to severe flooding. Floods in Sierra Leone have affected 11 out of 16 districts in Sierra Leone according to the National Disaster Agency (NDMA). The National Council of Churches of Sierra Leone is planning to respond to the affected through Rapid Response Funds. RRF No 13 Sierra Leone Floods
The Southwest Monsoon brought light to moderate rains in the Philippines since 11 July 2024. However, this was intensified by the Tropical Depression (TD) Prapiroon (locally named Butchoy) that entered on July 19, and traversed Southern Luzon. While TD Prapiroon left the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) on the next day, it still strengthened the impacts of the monsoon rains. It was then closely followed by Typhoon Gaemi (locally named Carina) that entered the PAR on July 21. It intensified as it moved north-westward across Luzon to the West Philippine Sea from July 22 to 23. The impacts of the Southwest Monsoon, enhanced by TD Prapiroon and TY Gaemi, brought intense to torrential rains and devastating floods over the majority of Luzon, and some parts of Visayas and Mindanao. According to the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) a total of 183,64 families or 882,861 individuals affected in 686 villages in 15 administrative regions. From which, 35,388 persons are evacuated in government-designated evacuation centers, while 576,936 persons are outside evacuation centers. The Council also reported eight deaths, two injured, and one missing. The initial findings from the rapid assessment underscored the following needs: Food, potable water, Cleaning materials, Shelter repair kits, Psychosocial intervention. With the support from RRF, The NCCP plans to respond to the immediate needs of the communities through Food and Unconditional Cash Transfer in the areas of Pampanga and Tarlac (Region 3); Cavite and Rizal (Region 4A). RRF 11 2024 Philippines Floods
In El Salvador, the storm began on June 14 , causing flooding, rising rivers, storm surges, landslides, and deaths. As of June 21, heavy rains have caused at least 19 deaths, and the country remains flooded. A State of Emergency has been declared for 15 days (effective July 1) to mitigate further risks. In response to the severe weather, the State of Emergency was decreed on June 16, establishing immediate measures to protect food and nutritional security, create adequate shelter conditions for evacuees, and prevent negative impacts on national production, especially in agriculture, agro-industry, and livestock. Authorities remain on alert due to reports from the US National Hurricane Center, given El Salvador's vulnerability to climate change. The overflow of the Jalponga, Jiboa, and Paz rivers has led to the evacuation of over 450 families across various communities, including Hoja de Sal, San José Luna, and Astoria. Additionally, there have been 790 reports of infrastructure damage and 507 affected homes, with fatalities from a landslide in Tacuba. Flooding in Puerto Parada and agricultural losses in Sonsonate and El Paisnal have further exacerbated the situation, destroying hundreds of hectares of crops such as loroco, banana, corn, and pipianes. River overflows in Sonsonate have destroyed over 230 manzanas (approximately 160 hectares) of crops, while in El Paisnal, San Salvador, the Lempa River's overflow has led to the loss of 250 manzanas (around 174 hectares) of crops. Humanitarian needs are pressing, with Situation Report No. 10 from the General Directorate of Civil Protection reporting 7,116 people affected, 19 deaths, 19 injuries, 2 missing persons, 4,050 evacuees, 2,789 sheltered individuals, and 237 evacuated but not sheltered. There have been 1,379 incidents related to overflows, fallen trees, landslides, and sinkholes. Urgent humanitarian needs include food, hygiene kits, clothing, sanitation products, and items for babies and pregnant women. ALFALIT will be leading this emergency response, with the support of professional staff from the LWF, SLS, CAID, and CREDHO in terms of coordination, quality programming, and monitoring. The project will last for one month and will reach 500 families affected by the climate phenomenon through cash transfers. RRF 09 2024 El Salvador Floods
Zimbabwe is experiencing a severe drought due to significant below average rainfall. On 4th April 2024, the president of Zimbabwe declared drought a national disaster as the El Nino induced dry weather conditions have resulted in widespread food insecurity among drought affected rural communities who heavily rely on agriculture. Two ACT Zimbabwe national members with support from ACT Church of Sweden are intending to support 4,000 people in the affected districts with Cash Transfer interventions among out important initiatives. RRF 08 2024 Zimbabwe Drought Addtl
Zimbabwe is experiencing a severe drought due to significant below-average rainfall experienced during the last rainy season October 2023– March 2024 (ReliefWeb). The country received less than 20% of the typical rainfall expected during this season. El Niño events in Zimbabwe appears every two to six years and have been associated with prolonged dry spells, reduced rainfall, and increased temperatures. Water shortages and loss of crops are often the effect, affecting food security and livelihoods. On 4th April 2024, the president of Zimbabwe declared drought a national disaster in Zimbabwe (BBC). All 72 districts are affected in varying degrees with 30/72 being the most affected (OCHA, 5 May 2024). ACT Zimbabwe National Member MEDra is planning to respond using RRF funds through providing unconditional cash / Vouchers to 1440 people, implement WASH activities and provide Psycho social Support over the period of 3 months. RRF 07 2024 Zimbabwe Drought
The Government of Malawi declared a state of disaster due to drought, brought about by a dry season. The Government of Malawi estimates that about nine million people have been affected by drought, which has been considered as the worst in years, with February 2024 recorded as the driest and hottest month since 1981 (SADC Regional Humanitarian Appeal, May 2024). The drought has been persistent in the southern Africa regions affecting the whole Zambesi basin (JRC Global Drought Observatory, Drought in Southern Africa, April 2024). Churches Action in Relief and Development (CARD) and Evangelical Lutheran Development Service (ELDS) in Malawi are planning to respond to the drought using Rapid Response Funds to support people affected by the drought. The project will target women and children headed households, people with disabilities, the elderly and chronically ill among other vulnerable groups. RRF 06 2024 Malawi Drought
On Tuesday, April 30, 2024 at 02:35 WITA, Mount Ruang in Sitaro Regency, North Sulawesi, Indonesia erupted with a maximum amplitude of 55 mm and a temporary duration of ± 10 minutes. This eruption was a continuation from the April 16 eruption. Based on the government’s report and initial assessment, the disaster indicates a moderate impact and is categorised as medium-scale emergency. Around 20,000 people from 12 villages in Tagulandang Resort are greatly affected by this eruption. Communities within a radius of 4-6 km from Mount Ruang have evacuated independently, including those from Bahoi Village, Balehumara Village, Barangka Pahe Village, Mahangian Village, Tulusan Village, Lesa Village and Lesa Rende Village. People were displaced in Sitaro Regency and North Minahasa Regency. Volcanic ash covered the roads and houses by 2-5 cm, hampering the activities of the community. It also covered several airports around the North Sulawesi region including Sam Ratulangi Manado Airport, Djalaludin Gorontalo Airport, Melonguane Airport, Siau Airport, and Naha Airport, causing access to the North Sulawesi region to be impassable by air for the next couple of days. According to initial assessments, Food, NFIs, Health and protection are the main needs for the people in the IDPs camps. ACT alliance members PELKESI and YEU with the support from RRF will be providing primary health care services, distribution of health kits, food packages, Shelter kits and psycho-social support to kids. The project is targeting around 6000 beneficiaries in the affected areas of Sitaro district. RRF 04 2024 Indonesia Volcanic Eruption
Rio Grande do Sul, in southern Brazil, has experienced heavy rains that have flooded 452 municipalities. As of May 15, 2024, these floods have affected over 2 million people, resulting in 538,126 displaced, 76,588 in shelters, approximately 806 injured, 149 confirmed deaths, and 108 missing persons (Civil Defense Bulletin of the State of Rio Grande do Sul). In early May, continuous heavy rains in Porto Alegre, the Metropolitan Region, and the Vale do Rio Pardo led to the declaration of a state of public calamity on May 2. Porto Alegre, with 1.3 million inhabitants, has 157,000 affected people. Approximately 1.2 million people in Rio Grande do Sul are without electricity. Among the 149 deceased, 103 have been identified, including 37 from the Porto Alegre Metropolitan Region, encompassing various age groups from children to the elderly. Initial estimates suggest an economic impact of at least USD 2.5 billion, which is expected to grow as more storms are forecasted. The agriculture sector is significantly affected, with soybean prices rising due to harvest reduction fears, and potential impacts on rice, beans, pork, and poultry production. The floods have destroyed homes, workplaces, roads, bridges, and essential infrastructure and services such as drinking water, power supply, and communication. The situation worsened on May 13 with renewed rains and rising river levels, causing further evacuations of many residents who had previously returned home. This flood is the largest in the history of Rio Grande do Sul. By Monday, May 13, rainfall in Porto Alegre reached 341.7 millimeters for the month, far exceeding the average May rainfall of 113 millimeters (National Institute of Meteorology Inmet). Civil Defense has issued alerts for most of the state's river basins, projecting water levels to exceed flood thresholds. The Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFGRS) warns of further rises in water levels due to rainfall and wind effects, with the Guaíba River’s levels expected to exceed 5 meters. According to a needs assessment conducted by the Fundação Luterana de Diaconia (FLD), the most urgent humanitarian needs are identified in the sectors of food assistance, WASH, and Community-Based Psychosocial Support (CBPS). This action, to be implemented by the FLD, aims to assist 556 families affected by the floods, directly benefiting over 2,780 people. These beneficiaries include women involved in the solidarity economy, waste collectors, indigenous Guarani and Kaingang communities, quilombola communities, and agroecological family farmers in the three most affected regions of the state: the Metropolitan Region, Vale dos Sinos, and Vale do Rio Pardo, over a three-month period. RRF 03 2024 Brazil floods
The Philippines is currently facing a catastrophic drought, one of the slow-onset effects of climate change, along with other climate impact drivers such as rising sea levels, increased precipitation, stronger wind patterns, and typhoons. This catastrophic drought is driven by the 2023-24 El Niño, which is, according to the United Nations weather agency, one of the five strongest on record. Climate Change Commission defines Drought as a decrease of 21 to 60 percent in rain occurrences for five consecutive months, or below normal rainfall conditions for three consecutive months. Additionally, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geographical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) reported on March 25 that 37 provinces have experienced drought conditions (3 consecutive months of way below normal rainfall conditions/more than 60% reduction from rainfall average), 22 provinces with dry spell (3 consecutive months of below normal rainfall condition/21%-60% reduction from rainfall average) and 12 provinces with dry condition (2 consecutive months of below normal rainfall condition). Five (5) provinces declared a state of calamities due to the worst effects of drought in their area, namely Occidental Mindoro (IV-B), Negros Occidental (VI), Sultan Kudarat (XII), and Maguinadanao Del Norte, Maguindanao Del Sur (BARMM). Besides these provinces, 34 local government units also declared a state of calamity. According to the data released by the Philippines Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Disaster Response Operations Monitoring and Information Center (DROMIC), as of 24 April 2024, there were 531,114 families or 2,283,636 persons affected in 3,053 villages in 11 Regions. Food and other livelihood support is the main need of the time. It is expected that the need for food and livelihood support in the affected areas is going to increase. ACT Alliance member National Counsel of Churches in Philippines (NCCP) with the support from RRF mechanism addressing the urgent needs by providing food packs to 2,400 households, distribution of multi-purpose cash assistance to 300 households and Construction of 2 water pumps/deep wells for 2 communities. link to the detailed proposal attached below. NCCP_ACT-RRF-Proposal-El Nino Drought
Colombia hosts almost three million Venezuelan migrants as of February 2024, making it the largest recipient of Venezuelan migrants and refugees. This represents one of the largest displacements globally, second only to Syria. Approximately 7.7 million people have left Venezuela following the collapse of its economy. South America has also experienced an increasing influx of Haitian migrants since the 2010 earthquake, which displaced an estimated two million people. More recently, Haitian migration has been driven by escalating violence and poverty. Ecuadorians form the second-largest group of migrants and refugees in the region after Venezuelans, migrating primarily to Central America and the United States, largely for economic reasons (IDB – OECD, 2024). Colombia has also become a transit country for irregular migration, serving as a corridor for individuals seeking to move northward. Many of these migrants are fleeing conflict, natural disasters, or a lack of opportunities for a dignified life in their countries of origin. In 2023, nearly 540,000 people crossed the Darién Gap—the dense jungle between Colombia and Panama—with most originating from South America, followed by migrants from the Antilles and Asia. By September 2024, Migración Panamá reported that 263,296 people had crossed the Darién Gap. The border zone spans from the Chocó region in Urabá, particularly Acandí, to areas in Antioquia such as Necoclí, Turbo, Carepa, Chigorodó, and Apartadó. The municipalities in the Urabá region are struggling to cope with the influx of migrants, which has overwhelmed basic services while receiving insufficient humanitarian support. Immediate, coordinated efforts are critical to address urgent needs, including food, safety, and access to essential services. Protection remains a top priority, as vulnerable populations require immediate assistance, particularly safe spaces for those at risk. The lack of facilities for victims of trafficking and gender-based violence highlights the urgent need to support women, children, and adolescents. Armed groups operating in border areas exacerbate risks, including sexual violence, forced labor, forced recruitment, and human trafficking. According to the International Organization for Migration (IOM), 536 migrant deaths were reported in the Darién Gap between 2015 and 2024, with 172 occurring in 2024 alone. Accounts from survivors suggest there is significant underreporting of deaths and disappearances. While the influx of migrants has brought higher incomes for host communities through foreign currency, it has also driven up the cost of goods and services, creating additional barriers for migrants in transit. Basic necessities, including affordable shelter, remain out of reach for many. For example, the cost of using a shower can be as high as USD 5 per person. Since November 2023, IELCO has been active in the Urabá region of Antioquia, specifically in Turbo. Through a partnership with the local Presbyterian Church, IELCO has served 4,017 people—2,202 men, adolescents, and boys, and 1,815 women, adolescents, and girls—highlighting the pressing needs in this region. To continue addressing these challenges, IELCO plans to activate the Rapid Response Fund (RRF) to provide protection services to 4,000 migrants over a five-month period. These services will include emergency case management (such as shelter and transportation), distribution of protection kits (including hygiene supplies, food, and GBV response materials), life-saving information on safe routes, psychosocial support, and safe spaces for children and adolescents. ACT Alert Colombia Migration Crisis
South Sudan flooding is caused by torrential rains and rising water levels around Lake Victoria, one of Africa’s Great Lakes, generated a wide swampy area of flooding in the country . In the Sudd region of South Sudan, the Nile passes through a vast network of smaller rivers, swamps, and floodplains. It is one of the world’s largest wetlands. On 3rd October 2024, the Council of Ministers endorsed the declaration of a state of emergency in flood-affected states. (OCHA, 4 Oct 2024). The State of Emergency includes measures to protect food security, provide adequate shelter, and safeguard national production, particularly in agriculture and livestock. ACT South Sudan Forum members intend to respond to this crisis. South Sudan Flooding
Severe Tropical Storm Trami (locally named Kristine) wreaked havoc across multiple regions, triggering widespread flooding and landslides. From October 22 to 23, Trami lingered near the Bicol Region (Region V), delivering an unprecedented and record-high 525.5 mm of rainfall in just 24 hours. This torrential downpour triggered devastating flash floods and landslides, resulting in 62 fatalities in the region alone. In less than a week, Super Typhoon Kong-Rey (locally named Leon), with maximum sustained winds of 195 km/h and gusts up to 240 km/h, entered the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) on October 27. Signal No. 5 was raised over Itbayat and Basco as the typhoon brought "violent conditions" while passing close to Batanes. The storm caused extensive damage across the province, still reeling from Typhoon Krathon (Julian) just a month earlier. STY Kong-Rey also triggered storm surges in Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte, and battered the Mountain Province with strong winds, displacing families and damaging homes. As of November 4, more than 8.6 million people (2.2 million families) have been affected with the combined effects of STS Trami and STY Kong-Rey across 17 out of 18 regions in the country. According to the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC), at least 711,149 persons have been displaced which are either staying in government-designated evacuation centers or seeking temporary refuge with their friends or relatives. While the Department of Social Welfare and Development has reported 8.7 million people affected from the Bangsamoro Region in Mindanao to the northernmost part of Luzon in Batanes. ACT Alliance member National council of Churches in Philippines is already on the ground and planning to extend support the affected communities. NCCP is planning to launch an appeal to address the urgent needs but also focus on the recovery and rehabilitation in the areas. ACT Alert_trophical storm Kristine Philippines
Sierra Leone has faced severe flooding, caused by sudden, unusual, unprecedented heavy and prolonged rainfall (Relief Web 16th October 2024). The floods were exacerbated by the overflow of Bumbuna Dam in Tonkolili (NDMA SL) and heavy rains experienced in the Futa Jallon highlands in Guinea overflowing and emptying into the Atlantic Ocean through Sierra Leone. The floods have affected at least 11 out of 16 districts, according to the National Disaster Agency (NDMA). The most affected areas include Bo, Bonthe, Bombali, Falaba, Kambia, Moyamba, Tonkolilil, Port Loki, Pujehon and the Western Area. The Council of Churches in Sierra Leone is planning to respond to the flood affected communities. Sierra Leone Floods
Floods across Nigeria have taken the lives of more than 300 persons (Africa News) and affected 1.2 million people over 31 states. This is according to Nigeria's National Emergency Management Authority (OCHA). Five million people face critical food insecurity in Borno, Adamawa and Yobe (BAY) states, due to the destruction of thousands of hectares of crops that have been damaged at the height of the lean season-ahead of harvest; affecting livelihoods across Nigeria (ReliefWeb). Nigeria Council of Churches, an ACT Nigeria Forum member are planning to respond to flooding crisis in Adamawa State. Nigeria Floods
The Southwest Monsoon brought light to moderate rains in the Philippines since 11 July 2024. However, this was intensified by the Tropical Depression (TD) Prapiroon (locally named Butchoy) that entered on July 19, and traversed Southern Luzon. While TD Prapiroon left the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) on the next day, it still strengthened the impacts of the monsoon rains. It was then closely followed by Typhoon Gaemi (locally named Carina) that entered the PAR on July 21. It intensified as it moved north-westward across Luzon to the West Philippine Sea from July 22 to 23. The impacts of the Southwest Monsoon, enhanced by TD Prapiroon and TY Gaemi, brought intense to torrential rains and devastating floods over the majority of Luzon, and some parts of Visayas and Mindanao. According to the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) a total of 183,64 families or 882,861 individuals affected in 686 villages in 15 administrative regions. From which, 35,388 persons are evacuated in government-designated evacuation centers, while 576,936 persons are outside evacuation centers. The Council also reported eight deaths, two injured, and one missing. The initial findings from the rapid assessment underscored the following needs: Food, potable water, Cleaning materials, Shelter repair kits, Psychosocial intervention. The NCCP plans to respond to the immediate needs of the communities through Food, WASH, Unconditional Cash Transfer, and shelter repair kits in coordination with the regional ECUDREAMCs and member churches in areas of Region IV-A (CALABARZON) – Cavite, Rizal, and Batangas, Region III (Central Luzon) – Bulacan, Pampanga, Pangasinan, National Capital Region (Metro Manila) – Navotas City, Region IV-B (MIMAROPA) – Romblon. Alert-NCCP Southwest monsoon and TY Carina
The provinces of South Kivu and Tanganyika in DRC have experienced heavy rains during the past two rainy seasons of September-February and April-June 2024 causing floods (of river and lake origin), storms and landslides exacerbated by climate change (IFRC). The heavier than usual rains accompanied by strong waves and storms have caused swelling of several rivers that feed into Lake Tanganika causing intense flooding and landslides during the months of May, June, and July 2024 resulting in a call for assistance from Uvira city authorities as the rivers of Kalimabenge, Mulongwe, Kavinvira and Nyangara continue to flow into Lake Tanganyika surpassing the lakes highest level having overflowed their banks(Relief Web) causing more flooding. Due to the flooding, homes are inundated and 1,200 people are currently living in camps in Kilomoni I, II and Tanganyka in very poor hygienic conditions (Town Hall Report, published May 31, 2024, www.ocha.org/drc ). Many have lost their homes, fields crops of cereal and tubers and livelihoods (ReliefWeb). The Evangelical Lutheran Church in Congo (EELCO) has planned to use Rapid Response funds to support the affected persons with multi-purpose cash transfer to meet their basic needs. DRC Floods-3
El Salvador has experienced heavy rains since June 14, resulting in 13 deaths and widespread flooding, prompting a 15-day State of Emergency. The General Directorate of Civil Protection in El Salvador has issued a series of progressive alerts in response to the ongoing tropical storm. The alert levels began with Green and Yellow on June 13, escalated to Orange on June 14, and reached Red on June 16, reflecting the increasing severity of the situation. As of June 20, orange alerts are in place for 18 municipalities, and red alerts for 26 municipalities due to saturated soil and rising river levels. The Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources (MARN in Spanish) reports two low-pressure systems bringing heavy rainfall from the Pacific Ocean, forecasting ongoing urban flooding, flash floods, river overflows, landslides, and rockfalls. The Hydrological Forecast Center warns of severe urban flooding, river overflows, and widespread inundation. Between June 14 and 20, rainfall reached a maximum of 680 mm in Ahuachapán (West) and 604.8 mm in San Miguel (East). The probability of overflows remains high in several rivers and hydrographic regions. According to the Situation Report No. 7 from the General Directorate of Civil Protection, the recent tropical storm has affected 4,045 people in El Salvador. The disaster has resulted in 13 fatalities, 12 injured people, and 2 missing people. Currently, 3,893 people are taking refuge in shelters, while 125 individuals have been evacuated but remain unsheltered. The report highlights the significant impact on the population and underscores the urgent need for ongoing support and resources. 121 shelters have been established, with 112 currently active, serving 1,508 families, including people with disabilities and pregnant women. Reports indicate 589 instances of damage to vital infrastructure, 312 affected homes, and 893 additional incidents. Humanitarian needs include food, hygiene kits, clothing, sanitation products, and items for babies and pregnant women. Due to the Jalponga river overflow, communities such as Hoja de Sal, El Pito, El Recuerdo, and Río Viejo in Santiago Nonualco district have been heavily impacted, leading to the establishment of shelters in the Communal House and the Hoja de Sal Educational Complex, evacuating 20 families. In Villas de San Pedro, the Community Center is now a shelter, and in San José Luna, the Communal House has been enabled due to the Jiboa River overflow, affecting roads and homes, leading to the evacuation of 32 families. As per official reports and initial community monitoring, food security is a primary concern due to significant crop losses and disruptions to livelihoods such as informal trade and artisanal fishing. It is imperative to enhance protection and response measures within the food security sector, prioritizing physical safety and promoting community resilience against future climate events. Most pressing needs have been identified in the sectors Mental Health and Psychosocial Support, Protection (to prevent GBV), Food Security and Livelihoods. The ACT Forum El Salvador members (the Lutheran Synod of El Salvador and ALFALIT), are seeking to provide humanitarian support in the following sectors:
Pakistan’s National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued a heatwave alert for much of the country, with particular emphasis on Punjab and Sindh provinces. According to an NDMA announcement on Thursday, heatwave conditions are expected to develop over most regions starting May 21, escalating to severe heatwave conditions between May 23 and May 27. The forecast includes three separate heatwave spells: the initial one lasting two to three days, followed by a second spell towards the end of May lasting four to five days, and a third spell in early June lasting three to five days. The geographical areas affected include most parts of Pakistan, with a focus on Punjab and Sindh provinces. Specific districts in Sindh, such as Tharparkar, Umerkot, Sanghar, Badin, and Khairpur, are particularly impacted during the second heatwave spell. Daytime temperatures are expected to remain 4-8°C above normal in these regions, exacerbating the conditions. Immediate health risks include heat strokes, heat cramps, and aggravation of existing health conditions, potentially leading to fatalities. The demand for medical services and cooling centers increases significantly. Establishing heatwave treatment and facilitation centres for communities is essential but beyond their capacity. Given the similar situation across at-risk districts, urgent support from humanitarian organizations is imperative. Immediate requirements include fully-equipped facilitation centres staffed with paramedics for providing first aid treatment. There is also a pressing need for community awareness campaigns to prevent direct sun exposure, dehydration, and the provision of flexible labour hours. Community World Service Asia (CWSA), in collaboration with district authorities, intends to establish six heatwave centres or camps in Umerkot district for a duration of four months. These facilities include a central site in Umerkot city, three additional camps at health facilities already supported by CWSA projects i.e. Government dispensary Ramsar, Government Dispensary Jhamrari, and Government Dispensary Cheelband and two more location will be identified for heat wave facilitation centres in consultation with district government. ACT Alert (Pakistan Heatwave Emergency) _ 2024
Since April 29, Rio Grande do Sul, in southern Brazil, has experienced heavy rains that flooded 452 municipalities. As of 15 May 2024, these floods have affected more than two million people, where 538,126 displaced with 76,588 in shelters, about 806 have been injured, 149 confirmed deaths, and 108 missing persons (Civil Defense Bulletin of the State of Rio Grande do Sul. Issued on the 15th of May 2024). In Porto Alegre, the Metropolitan Region, and the Vale do Rio Pardo, heavy and constant rains began in early May, prompting public authorities to declare a state of public calamity on 2nd May. The situation worsened on May 13, with a resurgence of rains and rising river levels, leading to the evacuation of many who had returned to their homes. Porto Alegre, with 1.3 million inhabitants, has 157,000 affected people. This flood is the largest in the history of Rio Grande do Sul. By Monday, May 13, rainfall in Porto Alegre reached 341.7 millimeters for the month, exceeding the average May rainfall of 113 millimeters (National Institute of Meteorology Inmet). According to the Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFGRS), the main concern at the moment is the further rise in levels due to rainfall and wind effects. All scenarios projected by the Institute of Hydraulic Research (IPH-UFGRS) for the next week indicate a prolonged rise in the Guaíba's water levels, with a subsequent peak expected to exceed 5 meters. The economic impact is significant, characterized by substantial damage to critical infrastructure and disruptions to food and water distribution systems. Over a million households are currently experiencing water shortages, and the isolation of Porto Alegre poses a threat to agriculture, which is vital to the state's economy. Authorities have issued warnings of imminent food shortages and price increase that could have ripple effects across the nation. Please see the infographic of this disaster on https://reliefweb.int/report/brazil/maior-catastrofe-climatica-do-rs-abril-maio-de-2024-pt Communities are devastated. The affected population has lost their homes, belongings, and livelihoods. Among the most affected populations are women from solidarity economic enterprises and their families, the majority of whom are women who already lived communities deeply affected by economic and social inequalities and in high-risk areas. 2,500 informal recyclable waste collectors, including women, lost their livelihood due to the floods in the Metropolitan Region of Porto Alegre and the Vale do Rio dos Sinos. Many of them had their homes, which are also their workspaces, completely flooded and left in a hurry, leaving everything behind. Households dependent on family and agroecological farming have had their properties flooded, losing production, many animals, and machinery, mainly in the Vale do Rio Pardo region. In quilombola communities (communities of descendants of Afro-Brazilian slaves who escaped from slavery in colonial Brazil and formed their own settlements), the situation is serious. Many are still stranded, without access to water, energy, and food. In the Machado Quilombo and the Quilombola Front of Rio Grande do Sul, a quilombola leader categorically stated that "97% of the area is a total loss.” For this emergency, the Lutheran Foundation for Diaconia (FLD) is seeking, jointly with community associations, to provide direct emergency response to 500 families (over 2,500 people) in the sectors of food security (delivery of food items), WASH (delivery of cleaning and hygiene products), and Community-based Psychosocial Support (CBPS). As a context, a humanitarian corridor has been established in the city to transport essential items such as food, water, and medicine. Access to the humanitarian corridor for transporting food and essential items is granted to community associations, in coordination with the municipality. This enables the identification of the most needed items and ensures their delivery to the affected population, including the most vulnerable. ACT Alert Brazilian Floods 2024
Zimbabwe, Zambia, and Malawi are some of the most drought affected Southern Africa countries having received less than 20% of the typical rainfall expected during the last season. The poor rains have been attributed to the on-going El Niño Southern Oscillation effects (World Weather Attribution). On 23rd March 2024, Malawi government declared a state of emergency in 23 out of 28 drought affected districts (afrinews) , in Zimbabwe on 4th April 2024 the president of Zimbabwe declared the drought situation in Zimbabwe to be a national disaster (BBC) while in Zambia and the drought was also declared a national disaster on 29th February 2024 as 84 out of 116 districts nationally have been affected (afrinews) by drought induced El Nino effects. ACT Forum members in Zimbabwe, Malawi and Zambia are planning to respond to the people affected by drought. SAF 241 Drought Response
On Tuesday, April 30, 2024 at 02:35 WITA, Mount Ruang in Sitaro Regency, North Sulawesi, Indonesia erupted with a maximum amplitude of 55 mm and a temporary duration of ± 10 minutes. This eruption was a continuation from the April 16 eruption. Based on the government’s report and initial assessment, recently, the disaster indicates a moderate impact and is categorised as medium-scale emergency. Around 20,000 people from 12 villages in Tagulandang Resort are greatly affected by this eruption. Communities within a radius of 4-6 km from Mount Ruang have evacuated independently, including those from Bahoi Village, Balehumara Village, Barangka Pahe Village, Mahangian Village, Tulusan Village, Lesa Village and Lesa Rende Village. People were displaced in Sitaro Regency and North Minahasa Regency. Volcanic ash covered the roads and houses by 2-5 cm, hampering the activities of the community. It also covered several airports around the North Sulawesi region including Sam Ratulangi Manado Airport, Djalaludin Gorontalo Airport, Melonguane Airport, Siau Airport, and Naha Airport, causing access to the North Sulawesi region to be impassable by air for the next couple of days. According to initial assessments, Food, NFIs, Health and protection are the main needs for the people in the IDPs camps. The ACTIF forum members PELKESI, YEU and MBM are operating in the areas and are planning to respond the emergency through the RRF mechanism. Indonesia_Alert_Mt. Ruang volcano Eruption May 2024
Head of Humanitarian Affairs
Global
niall.orourke@actalliance.org
Geneva, Switzerland
Regional Humanitarian Officer
Africa
Caroline.Njogu@actalliance.org
Nairobi, Kenya
Humanitarian Operations Manager
Global
Cyra.Bullecer@actalliance.org
Bangkok, Thailand
Humanitarian Programme Advisor
MENA
Amman, Jordan
Humanitarian Programme Officer
Latin America and the Caribbean
Bogota, Colombia
Finance Coordinator
Global
marjorie.schmidt@actalliance.org
Geneva, Switzerland
