Gaafu Alif Dhevvadhoo

In May 2023, jointly with NDMA  MRC conducted a five-day Hazard, Vulnerability, and Capacity Assessment (HVCA) and Island Disaster Management Development workshop in Gaafu Alif Dhevvadhoo. During this workshop, participants gained insight into the unique challenges and vulnerabilities faced by island communities in the Maldives. Participants employed a variety of data collection methods, including key informant interviews (KIIs), focus group discussions (FGD's), historical timelines, seasonal calendars, venn diagrams, and mapping, to complete the HVCA. These techniques ensured a comprehensive understanding of the community's strengths and vulnerabilities. The workshop guided participants through the process of developing action plans by identifying risk reduction measures and creating effective response strategies for potential disasters. Through data collection, tailored planning, and community engagement, the workshop equipped local communities to face the unique challenges and vulnerabilities in the Maldives. 

A baseline survey in Dhevvadhoo revealed that 66% of respondents felt unprepared for disasters, and 97% recognized the likelihood of being impacted by at least one hazard. This underscores the critical role of the SPRING Project in enhancing resilience in the Maldives. 

Notably, key community stakeholders such as the Island Council, the Women's Development Committee, the Health Center, and Islanders (NGO) devised their disaster response plans based on their organizational strengths and capacities. In addition to this, a practical exercise was also conducted to help define and demonstrate the responsibilities of Disaster Management Committee members. These simulations focused on coordination and decision-making during disaster scenarios.  

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 enchance the community prepardness to disasters and emergencies.