Baa Kendhoo

In July 2023, jointly with NDMA MRC coducted an Island Disaster Management Plan (IDMP) & Hazard Vulnurability

Capacity Assessment Workshop in Baa. Kendhoo. The island is for its susceptibility to frequent flooding and has undergonea transformative process to strengthen its resilience against hazards through this workshop.This workshop allowed community members to assess preparedness and empower the community to face the challenges posed by their unique geographical setting. 

A baseline survey conducted by the SPRING Team revealed that 90% of the community recognized the likelihood of experiencing disasters, particularly flooding and health emergencies. The Hazard Vulnerability Capacity Assessment (HVCA) process further identified critical vulnerabilities, such as the lack of essential resources like water pumps and limited healthcare facilities. Through discussions with migrants in B. Kendhoo, MRC identified the disparities between Maldivians and the migrant community when dealing with hazards. Migrant respondents highlighted their limited access to fundamental healthcare and the absence of essential resources like clean water during health emergencies. 

During the workshop, a two-year action plan was developed, engaging key stakeholders such as the Island Council, Women’s Development Committee, FENAKA, B. Kendhoo Health Center, and B. Kendhoo Education Center, to enhance disaster risk management at a community level. A dedicated disaster management committee was also formed to ensure effective coordination and accountability. Finally, a community consultation was held which emphasized inclusive governance and ownership in developing the Island Disaster Management Plan (IDMP). With valuable community feedback integrated into the final plan, the result is a more resilient and well-prepared B. Kendhoo.

Based on the information and inputs collected from the community, MRC will be implementing Priority Implementation Projects (PIP's) under the project to equip and enhance the community preparedness to disasters and emergencies.