In November 2020, Central America witnessed a natural catastrophe that left a trail of destruction and desolation in its wake. Over 6.5 million people were affected by these unprecedented climatic phenomena, the impacts of which still resonate in the most affected communities. Nicaragua was one of the hardest-hit countries by Hurricanes Eta and Iota, which unleashed a devastating fury upon the region
On November 3, 2020, Hurricane Eta, a Category 4 storm, made its appearance in the region, striking Nicaragua, Honduras, and Guatemala with violence. But the tragedy did not stop there. Barely two weeks later, Hurricane Iota, a Category 5 storm, followed the same destructive path, exacerbating an already precarious situation.
Municipalities in Nicaragua such as Jinotega, Nueva Segovia, and Santa Teresa faced the loss of human lives, with a tragic toll of 9 fatalities and hundreds of people experiencing damage to their homes and family well-being. Communities in the Santa Teresa municipality mourned the loss of 5 human lives and the destruction of the majority of their homes, a somber reminder of life's fragility in the face of nature's wrath.
Solidarity in Action: Brave Responses to Adversity
The presence of organizations like the Association Sofonias Nicaragua (Sofonic) in the department of Carazo, acting as project formulators and implementers, the effective diligence of the Municipal Government of Santa Teresa in selecting and relocating families to safe areas, and the swift actions of SOLIDAR-Switzerland as financiers, were crucial in responding to this terrible tragedy. Emergency funds were released to address the most urgent needs, providing vital assistance to communities and families in El Quinal, Aguas Calientes, and La Piñuela, resulting in the project "Hurricane Response in the Municipality of Santa Teresa."
This project involved constructing 60 shelters for the same number of affected families, becoming a crucial step towards the recovery and reconstruction of shattered lives and homes, ensuring their safety. These shelters were built using precast ferrocement slabs, a system suitable for rapid responses to natural disasters. Additionally, 6 young individuals from these communities were trained during the construction process in basic masonry concepts, an area where Sofonic has extensive experience in project implementation.
Sofonic: Experience and Commitment in Swift Response
Sofonic's role was pivotal in responding to the emergency. With experience and qualified personnel, the organization swiftly and effectively mobilized to provide assistance to communities and families affected by constructing 60 permanent shelters. Their agile and efficient construction system allowed for a rapid and effective response, ensuring secure shelters for families in dire need during a critical moment.
The hurricanes of November 2020 left an indelible mark on Nicaragua and the entire region. Despite the devastation, solidarity and resilience emerged as driving forces in the response and recovery efforts. The focus on safe relocation, shelter construction, and the collaboration of organizations like Sofonic and SOLIDAR-Switzerland demonstrated that even in the most difficult situations, organizations can come together to confront seemingly insurmountable challenges. As Nicaragua progresses towards recovery, these lessons of solidarity and strength continue to shine as beacons of hope in times of adversity.
* The Sofonias Association Nicaragua (Sofonic) is a member of the Ecosur Network.