Access to DRR information and tools strengthens community cohesion in El Salvador

In El Salvador, thousands of people are displaced by floods. The relocation of displaced populations further pushes them to new disaster risks along with existing socio-economic vulnerability. In partnership with GNDR, Fundación Salvadoreña para la Promoción Social y el Desarrollo Económico (Funsalprodese), is a local NGO that has been involved in the Making Displacement Safer project that sought locally-led DRR solutions to challenges faced by populations living in La Union in the east of El Salvador.
In La Union in the east of El Salvador, the relocation of displaced communities has been exposed to several risks and new vulnerabilities. Funsalprodese, ensured that displaced communities had access to early warning systems and evacuation preparedness infrastructure for hazards. To address flood risk in these communities, Funsalprodese supported the installation of lighting and signage along the evacuation route, as well as loudspeakers for early warning. More than 70 solar lamps were distributed among the communities, improving the community’s safety as well as preparedness for evacuation. The two communication systems installed comprised nine-metre sound towers with two loudspeakers, two microphones and amplifier equipment to cover the community. This was supported with orientation sessions to maintain the equipment.
With the knowledge about existing risks and the prevention of future risks, the displaced communities advocated with the government for the right to participate in DRR and climate action planning and investments. As a result, a civil engagement platform was developed by the government.