Emergency Assistance for the locals of Myanmar

Following the food assistance reported in the previous report, from December to January, we provided agricultural-related assistance to improve the livelihood of the residents. Currently, the social situation remains in turmoil, and prices of all kinds of commodities have skyrocketed. This significantly reduced the buying power of locals. Without access to nutritious food and vegetables, local people particularly children, often suffer from malnutrition.

It is unfortunate that farmers were not spared from the high prices of farming inputs. As an alternative, our assistance targeted small-scale farmers. So far, we have helped a total of 200 households in 10 villages. We encouraged and taught them to use organic materials that are readily available to their villagers. As the local farmers grow organic vegetables mainly for their consumption, our initiative is helping to address the problem of food insecurity.

It is currently dry season in Myanmar, but the climate is suitable for vegetable cultivation. One of the locals who received support commented that she and her family had to limit food purchases because of the high prices. She added that the seeds, compost, and vegetable farming techniques that she learned from OISCA enabled her to engage in home gardening. She and her family are now enjoying nutritious meals.

We are committed to reaching out to communities and improving their livelihood and nutrition standards. Our staff who are working on the ground constantly monitor and provide technical assistance to the farmers.

We look forward to your continued support.

It is unfortunate that the living conditions of the local villagers in the Central Dry Zone (CDZ)- area where we work, is still not stable. CDZ is known to be Myanmar`s most water stressed, among the most impoverished, and with the harshest environmental conditions. The political turmoil led to soaring prices, severe cash shortages, and struggling local villagers. The number of people in need is increasing exponentially, and if not properly addressed, starving people and malnourished cases will increase.

In response to this situation, we reached out to the villages through our food aid program. We continue implementing our agricultural support program to stabilize the main source of income of the villagers. Taking into consideration the security situation and safety of our staff and the villagers, we are targeting to distribute relief goods, including rice, oil, eggs, vegetables, and others until the end of this year.

Amidst the chaos, the villagers feel grateful for the timely food and agricultural support. As the rainy season ends and the dry season begins, there is a high chance that more villagers will be in great need for support. We will continue monitoring the situation, and are committed to render support for the local people who are in need.

Thank you for your continued support.