Forecast-based Financing in Honduras and Guatemala

We are currently reviewing the national contingency plans for both countries since they normally focus on a response approach and with FbF we are now advocating for a shift into anticipation. This is supported by a better understanding of what are early actions about, from volunteers as well as the National Societies’ authorities as well as other partners such as hydrometeorological institutes. For instance, we are planning some capacity development initiatives (trainings) for National Intervention Teams, which have different capacities and specializations, such as WASH, shelter, logistics, finances, and others.

On the other hand, we have an important progress in terms of information exchange due to the agreements with the scientific sector and academia in both countries to support the access and meteorological information for hazards such as tropical storms, droughts and volcanic ashfall.

The Red Cross is a worldwide reference in terms of disaster response, and we are aware that both volunteers and staff have their focus on preparedness. But we are seeing that the more we talk about it and share with our partners, through practical examples, how can early actions be implemented to provide a more efficient aid there is more awareness and understanding of the importance of anticipation.

Alejandro Terán is from Quito, Ecuador. He works for the Red Cross since 2017. He arrived as a project coordinator for Forcast-based Financing in Honduras in august 2020. Alejandro worked previously in the World Food Program as Disaster Risk Specialist and at Quito’s Disaster Risk Management Department as Director.