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.
After nearly 14 years of conflict, Syria remains a complex humanitarian and protection emergency characterized by ongoing hostilities and their long-term consequences, including widespread destruction of civilian infrastructure, economic collapse, explosive ordnance contamination, diseases outbreaks, and one of the largest numbers of internally displaced people in the world, coupled by a devastating earthquake in 2023, the latest spillover effect of the 2024 Lebanon-Israel War Crisis, and the most recent internal change of Syrian regime. This build-up of events has devastated Syria's economy and infrastructure, leaving 90 per cent of the population in poverty and relying on some form of humanitarian aid, says the UNHCR. Regardless of how the situation unfolds, millions of Syrians will need help to get through this winter and beyond. “The country is not ready in terms of the availability of basic services; We are talking about health, education, water and sanitation, infrastructure, shelter, you name it. Those basic needs are not there even for the people who live in the country, let alone an additional influx coming from the outside”, said Adam Abdelmoula, UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Syria on December 13th, 2024. Since September 2024 as well, hundreds of thousands of people were forced to cross into Syria amid escalating hostilities in Lebanon; Many are being hosted by Syrian families and communities that are already vulnerable. Meanwhile, families in Syria continue to struggle to meet their basic needs. In many ways, the humanitarian needs across the whole of Syria are currently at their highest since the start of the conflict in 2011 and the newest escalations are threatening the collapse of an already dire system; The security context in all of Syria remains highly volatile, unpredictable and rapidly fluctuating, with reports of escalating incidents across multiple locations. A Snapshot of The Syria 2024 Humanitarian Needs Overview (HNO) per OCHA 2024 highlights the urgency to address the continued violations of IHL and IHRL, weak justice system and lack/limited access to rule of law and legal remedies, basic services that are collapsing, an ongoing cholera outbreak, climatic shocks and providing emergency agricultural assistance as crucial in addressing food insecurity in Syria, lack of jobs, services, and assistance driving needs, more than 6 million children at risk, especially those out-of-school and with disabilities, volatile fluctuation and depreciation of the value of the SYP, shortage of fuel and energy, emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases and medical needs; Gaps where all requesting members of this appeal have been working non-stop to fill. The 5th revision of this appeal has for change a much-needed update of the context, an amendment of the appeal geographic focus location to Syria only with halting of appeal activities in Turkey by beginning of 2025, an increase of the needed response budget, and a changed results framework with an inclusion of the recent effects of the escalations in both Lebanon and Syria on Syria in 2025; As well as welcoming EPDC as a new requesting member. The updated document is a result of both field and programmatic interagency coordination efforts, and assessments that ACT Requesting Members have undertaken individually and jointly to refine activities and holistically address fast-changing needs of communities from both Lebanon and Syria as targets groups, with a highlighted focus on the SCLR component. The appeal has so far been covered with USD 15,349,755 including pledges; The needed budget with this revision is USD 6,517,074. SYR231 REV.5 Syria Turkey Response SYR231 REV.5 Results Framework In the midst of the above, the ACT Syria Forum Members have also issued a statement to the world; Please find it here: https://actalliance.org/act-news/a-message-from-the-act-alliance-syria-members/ Links to the previous versions: https://actalliance.org/appeals-rapid-response-funds/syria-and-turkiye-syria-protracted-crisis-developing-the-resilience-of-affected-people-and-emergency-response-for-affected-communities-of-syria-turkiye-earthquake-syr231-revision-4/ Syria and Türkiye: Syria Protracted Crisis – Developing the Resilience of Affected People and Emergency Response for Affected Communities of Syria-Türkiye Earthquake – SYR231- Revision 3 – ACT Alliance Syria and Türkiye: Syria Protracted Crisis – Developing the Resilience of Affected People and Emergency Response for Affected Communities – SYR231- Revision 2 | ACT Alliance Syria: Syria Protracted Crisis – Developing the Resilience of Affected People and Emergency Response for Affected Communities of Syria-Türkiye Earthquake- SYR231- Revision 1 | ACT Alliance SYRIA: Syria Protracted Crisis – Developing the Resilience of Affected People – SYR231 | ACT Alliance
The Israeli bombardment across Gaza has forcibly displaced at least 85% of the population; The widespread destruction of civilian infrastructure has left almost the entire population of Gaza without access to clean drinking water or adequate nutrition, with approximately 2.2 million people at risk of famine, and OCHA estimating that 0% of the population in Northern Gaza having access to any clean drinking water. Gaza’s healthcare system is no longer functional, and both medical personnel and patients are being continuously subjected to military attacks. Gaza has been under a complete electricity blackout since the 11th of October 2023 and has also faced regular and sustained communication blackouts. The ongoing war poses a significant threat to vulnerable populations, particularly children who bear the effect of its impact. Around a million children urgently require mental health and psycho-social support. Complicating matters, approximately 17,000 children are separated from their parents or unaccompanied. Crosscutting protection issues of GBV, MHPSS, and women’s access to healthcare are also under supported. In terms of food security, there is an increased strain as 2.2 million people are facing imminent risk of starvation, necessitating urgent intervention. The destruction of health infrastructure and collapse of the healthcare system has put the population at high risk, particularly the most vulnerable groups, such as the chronically ill, the injured, pregnant women and children under five. Without access to essential medical services, these people face serious threats to their health and well-being. The education sector has been significantly impacted, leaving 625,000 students, representing the entire student population, without access to education. Additionally, the West Bank and East Jerusalem have also witnessed a series of alarming incidents that escalated tensions. The 1st revision of this appeal has for change an update of the context, the onboarding of three new requesting members: CA, FCA and DKH, an increase of the needed response budget, and a changed results framework. The updated document is a result of field and programmatic interagency coordination efforts, and assessments that ACT Requesting Members have undertaken individually and jointly to refine activities and holistically address fast-changing needs of communities in different areas of IoPT. The appeal has so far been covered with USD 3,119,019 including pledges; The needed budget with this revision is USD 9,628,080. PSE231 REV.1 Gaza Conflict Appeal PSE231 REV.1 Results Framework Link to the previous version: https://actalliance.org/appeals-rapid-response-funds/occupied-palestinian-territories-act-palestine-forum-emergency-response-in-the-occupied-palestinian-territories-gaza-conflict-pse231/
Tropical Storm Sara, which struck Honduras on November 14, 2024, caused widespread devastation, including floods, landslides, and river overflows that destroyed homes, crops, and infrastructure. The disaster affected 247,010 people, with 16,090 evacuated and 8,927 sheltered. The storm isolated 2,490 communities, damaged road networks, and hampered aid distribution, with many areas accessible only by four-wheel-drive vehicles. Despite ongoing recovery efforts, residual rains from a cold front continue to hinder progress, leaving many families without homes or livelihoods and exacerbating food insecurity in rural areas, where recovery is slow and access to basic services remains limited. The storm has severely exacerbated food insecurity and hygiene shortages in Honduras, affecting over 247,000 people who lost essential crops like maize and beans, along with their food reserves. Flooding and damaged infrastructure have disrupted food access in over 2,000 communities, while losses in the livestock sector amount to approximately USD 4.3 million, impacting cattle farming, beekeeping, fishing, and milk production. Many families also face shortages of basic hygiene products, increasing health risks. With 55,000 families in urgent need of food and hygiene supplies, and 2.8 million people already requiring humanitarian assistance prior to the storm, immediate support is critical to address worsening conditions. CASM aims to assist 1,124 families affected by the crisis over a period of three months. These efforts include the distribution of 1,124 basic food kits to provide essential food and nutritional support, sustaining each family for at least 15.8 days. Additionally, CASM will deliver 1,124 personal hygiene and cleaning kits to address urgent hygiene needs. RRF 17 2024 Honduras Hurricane Sara
South Sudan has been in a protracted crisis characterized by recurrent natural disasters, conflict, food shortages and a breakdown of livelihoods for several years. Currently South Sudan is experiencing severe catastrophic flooding across the country, caused by torrential rains and rising water levels around Lake Victoria. The heavy rain around Lake Victoria has brought a significant flow of water downstream towards South Sudan. This coupled with heavy rainfall across South Sudan has resulted in massive, large-scale flooding. The floods have caused widespread devastation and affected key infrastructure; causing submerged roads, disrupted education and health services and increased the risk of diseases. Many South Sudanese families have lost their homes and assets and more than half a million Sudanese refugees and returnees from South Sudan are also affected (BBC). The affected are currently seeking refuge on higher ground where there is restricted physical access. ACT South Sudan Forum members are submitting an appeal to respond to the flooding crisis among flood affected IDPs, refugees and host communities. SSD 241 Emergency Response development and peace initiatives among flood affected IDPs, Refugees and host communities FINAL
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. 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. with the support from RRF, NCCP will distribute food packs (25 kg rice and other food items) to 2,300 households whose livelihoods are severely affected by the typhoons and multi-Purpose Cash Assistance, (amount at around 68 USD per HH based on the food basket computation) to 750 households to support their basic and immediate recovery needs. Based on the assessment and coordination with ecumenical partners the intervention will focus ● Cagayan Valley Region: Cagayan and Isabela provinces ● Bicol Region: Camarines Sur and Albay provinces ● CAR: Apayao (target municipality is near Cagayan) ACT RRF 16-2024 Typhoon KRISTINE Philippines
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
On the evening of Wednesday, November 6, 2024, Hurricane Rafael (Category III on the Saffir-Simpson scale) struck the western part of Cuba, passing through the provinces of Mayabeque and Artemisa and causing significant damage to urban infrastructure and agriculture. The hurricane also caused collateral damage in Havana Province. Sustained winds exceeding 185 km/h and torrential rain battered these areas, including the cities of Artemisa and Bauta. This disaster occurred amid an unprecedented national energy crisis, characterized by repeated disconnections of the national electrical system, which left the entire country without power for several days. As of November 8, 2024, the situation is still not fully resolved, and parts of the country, especially in the western provinces, remain partially or entirely without electricity. The hurricane's impact came at a time when Cuba was already facing an unprecedented economic and humanitarian crisis, marked by food and resource shortages, continuous daily blackouts, and limited access to medical supplies. Since December 2022, reports indicate an exacerbation of staple food shortages. Approximately 80% of the basic food basket for the Cuban population relies on imports, costing over $2 billion USD. The main imports—wheat, rice, beans, corn, soybeans, chicken, and oil—could potentially be produced domestically if sufficient funding and a coherent production strategy were available at the local and territorial levels. As of Sunday afternoon, approximately 200,000 people in Artemisa and Bauta remain without power and water as emergency crews continue repairs. Electricity and phone services were also destroyed. There are no fatalities reported. Hurricane Rafael is the strongest storm to strike this part of Cuba in nearly 80 years. Hurricane Rafael’s slow movement for 12 hours brought heavy rainfall and strong winds that caused flooding, severe infrastructure damage, and road blockages affected 11 municipalities in Artemisa. The preliminary data records damages, including total or partial collapses, in more than 5,500 homes, including 4,933 in Artemisa and 660 in Mayabeque. In Havana, 461 collapses are reported, both total and partial, of which 99 were in the housing sector. As of November 8, an estimated 83% of Havana’s residents remain without power. In the city of over two million people, only about 100,000 have access to water by gravity, while the rest rely on pumping stations that require electricity. Severe impacts on the agricultural sector of Artemisa and Mayabeque, the main food producers in Havana. Preliminary reports suggest significant damage to banana, cassava, rice, bean, vegetable, corn, and soybean crops, as well as to poultry and pig farms. The lack of power has hampered local information dissemination and preparedness efforts, further complicating response activities. The CCRD-Cuba, in coordination with implementing partners will be providing emergency response in WASH, PSS, NFI, Food/Nutrition and Shelter to affected population in Aretemisa and Bauta. It has been foreseen that this response would last 6 months. ACT_Alert_Cuba_Hurricane_Raphael
Tropical Storm Sara severely impacted Central America, posing a critical threat to Honduras due to heavy rainfall and widespread flooding following its landfall late on November 14. The storm made landfall approximately 100 miles west-northwest of Cabo Gracias a Dios, on the Honduras-Nicaragua border, with sustained winds of 45 mph and a westward movement of 10 mph. Torrential rains across the region have significantly heightened risks, with forecasts predicting up to 30 inches of rainfall in northern Honduras. These conditions are expected to result in dangerous flash floods and mudslides, particularly in vulnerable areas such as the flood-prone Sula Valley . The emergency in Honduras is escalating, especially in the departments of Atlántida, Yoro, and other heavily impacted areas. A national emergency has been declared under decree PCM-35-2024, published on November 15 in the official newspaper La Gaceta (Number 36,690). This declaration establishes a 30-day emergency for areas identified by COPECO as severely affected by Tropical Storm Sara. According to the National Report on the Impact of Tropical Storm Sara (November 14–19, 2024) , the storm has impacted 45,531 families, totalling 144,144 people. Among them, 7,184 people are taking shelter in government-designated emergency centres, while others have sought refuge with relatives or friends. At the level of all departments under red alert, there are 2,379 isolated communities where the status of the population remains unknown due to inaccessibility, further exacerbating the situation. The most vulnerable families have been disproportionately affected, primarily due to inadequate infrastructure, soil saturation, and road collapses. These factors have significantly increased their exposure to additional risks. Damage to road infrastructure, including the collapse of bridges and the obstruction of key roads, has severely hindered access to many affected communities. This has delayed critical rescue and relief operations, complicating the delivery of assistance to those in urgent need. Tropical Storm Sara has caused widespread devastation across Honduras, severely impacting multiple regions. In Cortés, strong winds and heavy rains displaced families and caused significant structural damage. In Atlántida, flooding left over 7,000 people isolated as landslides and road obstructions cut off access to essential services. In Colón, flooding affected more than 7,000 people, with extensive damage to homes, roads, and bridges, leaving many communities inaccessible. Yoro faced rising waters that displaced over 2,100 people, while blocked transportation routes further hindered relief efforts. Gracias a Dios experienced severe river overflows, isolating communities and affecting over 7,600 people, particularly in Puerto Lempira. In Choluteca, flooding displaced 1,200 people and caused significant structural damage, while in Valle, nearly 500 people were affected as critical roads were submerged, cutting off access to affected areas. These widespread impacts underscore the urgent need for coordinated humanitarian assistance to address the needs of displaced and isolated populations. CASM plans to provide emergency response to 1,200 families (4,800 individuals, including 2,496 women and 2,304 men) over a three-month period, focusing on the sectors of WASH, Food Security, and Nutrition. ACT_Alert_Honduras_Hurricane_Sara
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
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
