Saving lives with tents

The Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) is working around the clock to ensure that the most vulnerable families receive shelter to be able to make it through the winter.

Each tent is 23 square meters and can house a family of six or seven. They are water resistant with double-fold and a solid ground sheet. We are currently distributing 2,500 tents that have a life span of minimum one year.

How we help

#1: We map the needs

In Badghis, our assistance is far from enough to cover everyone, and we’re only able to support the most vulnerable families. First, we map the needs and register those we are going to assist. Some receive tents to be able to make it through the winter in the make-shift camps, others receive cash assistance so that they can rent a place to stay.

We are working in collaboration with the UN, other humanitarian agencies, central and local authorities and representatives to provide assistance for those displaced.

#2: Logistics

The tents are transported to Badghis from NRC’s large warehouse, where we store emergency aid articles. We also buy things locally, as this is usually faster, cheaper and contribute to support the local economy.

#3 Distribution

So far, NRC has distributed 1,000 tents, and we aim to distribute 1,500 more. In addition, we distribute cash assistance to families to keep them from starving and freezing. We’ve assisted 10,000 families with assistance to make it through the winter. We distribute blankets, kitchenware, shoes and warm clothes.

#4 Organising

Around 25,000 people displaced from drought and conflict in Badghis have gathered in seven make-shift camps, where they have sought shelter under tarpauling and simple make-shift tents. NRC organise the work in the camps, and make sure people that have shelter, clean water and toilets.

#5 Speaking up

In addition to map, assist and protect displaced people, we work to ensure their rights and speak up on behalf of them. Through our advocacy work, we aim to prevent new displacement, make it easier for those displaced to return home safely and make sure they receive the assistance they need.