Training on disaster-resilient housing solutions

Local officials receive training on safe housing solutions and cash assistance, helping reduce disaster losses and support faster recovery.

Hanoi Moi reported that on September 7-8, the Viet Nam Disaster and Dyke Management Authority (VDDMA) under the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment, in coordination with Catholic Relief Services (CRS), held a training program to share experience in safe housing and cash assistance for disaster response and recovery.

The program brought together representatives from the VDDMA, CRS, experts and officials from several localities.

Speaking at the program, Ms. Doan Thi Tuyet Nga, Head of the International Cooperation Division at the VDDMA, said that as disasters become increasingly complex, strengthening local officials' capacity to reduce disaster risks is an urgent priority.

According to Ms. Nga, safe housing is an important measure to reduce loss of life and property while helping people stabilize their lives more quickly after disasters.

During the training, participants updated their knowledge of risk identification, housing safety assessments, and solutions for building, repairing and reinforcing homes to suit local disaster risks.

Experts also shared experience from safe housing models designed to withstand disasters and adapt to climate change. The lessons are expected to give local authorities a stronger basis for supporting people in building and repairing their homes.

Another key topic was cash assistance for disaster response and recovery. This approach is increasingly being used to help people meet essential needs, repair homes and restore livelihoods after disasters.

Participants discussed the process of providing cash assistance, from assessing needs and identifying beneficiaries and appropriate support levels to monitoring and evaluating the program's effectiveness.

Representatives from localities also shared their experience, challenges and lessons learned in supporting communities to prepare for, respond to and recover from disasters.

The program helped participants strengthen their knowledge and practical skills while promoting the exchange of experience among local authorities and relevant organizations.

Minh Hanh