One year after a devastating earthquake hit central Myanmar in March 2025, local communities and responders are driving reconstruction despite overlapping crises, according to an International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) press release. Thousands of families continue rebuilding homes, schools, and clinics amid ongoing conflict, economic hardship, flooding, and extreme heat. IFRC and partners have supported the Myanmar Red Cross Society (MRCS) to reach over 213,652 people across 31 townships with aid.
MRCS volunteers mobilised immediately, delivering first aid, food, safe water, shelter, and essentials — often reaching remote areas others couldn’t. IFRC Myanmar Head of Delegation Nadia Khoury, who recently visited 16 affected villages, praised how MRCS works with community leaders for inclusive, dignified recovery. “Communities continue to show remarkable strength,” she said.
Multipurpose cash grants have been key, letting families prioritise repairs, food, or medical costs after initial emergency aid. Digital tools now track funds transparently, even in hard-to-reach spots, ensuring aid reaches the most vulnerable. MRCS has also guided hundreds of families to build resilient, community-led shelters using local materials, Build Back Safer techniques, solar power, and rainwater harvesting to withstand future quakes, floods, and cyclones.
IFRC Operations Manager Jonathan Brass noted significant progress but stressed massive needs remain for livelihoods, WASH systems, health access, and income recovery. “There’s still so much to be done in 2026 and 2027,” he said. The international response has been strong, and MRCS professionalism has ensured timely delivery to earthquake victims and other vulnerable groups.
