Source: CDAC Network
Country: Nepal
This is the eight update on communicating with communities in the Nepal Earthquake response.
It outlines information and communication needs of communities affected by the quake, and provides information on media and communications initiatives and coordination currently underway.
Highlights as follows:
- The Humanitarian Coordinator has emphasised to the Humanitarian Country Team that agencies must give communities details about relief programmes. Remote communities must be reached with information about relief distributions, as people are travelling for days to reach distribution points.
- Communities’ current priority information needs are general news; information on the security situation; shelter and how to access aid and financial support (BBC Nepali, 19 May).
- Barriers preventing people getting information they need are no electricity (outside Kathmandu), and not knowing who to ask (in Kathmandu).
- Data from Betrawati Camp, Nuwakot highlights a complete lack of information on the support available, leading to great distress as people cannot make informed decisions (Internews).
- Very limited knowledge of how to contact relief organisations to request support and no information on distribution methodology are adding to heightened stress levels in Betrawaiti camp.
- More mobile charging stations are required in areas where electricity supplies have been cut off. One station in Chautura had to be shut down due to demand exceeding capacity. Microsoft are shipping in solar wifi and mobile phone charging stations for up to 50 ports, and building copies once they arrive in Nepal to try and meet needs.
- There is an urgent need for tents, generators and fuel supply to ensure radio stations continue broadcasting in Dhading, Dolakha and Sindhupalchowk districts. A map is being updated showing status and reach of radio stations.
- Top sources of information are reportedly Facebook and TV in Kathmandu, and radio and mobile phone in other priority affected areas.
These updates will now be compiled on a weekly basis.