Oxfam Colombia highlights the role of local organisations in the emergency following the earthquake that affected much of the country

Following the earthquake in Colombia, Oxfam Colombia is continuously monitoring the situation and the conditions faced by the affected communities, with a particular focus on the regions of Chocó and Buenaventura.

As part of the emergency response, Oxfam Colombia is liaising with local partner organisations and allies, who have in-depth knowledge of the communities, their dynamics and their capabilities. Through this joint effort, information is being gathered on potential damage and the humanitarian needs faced by the communities.

For Oxfam Colombia, local organisations are key players in any humanitarian response. Their knowledge of the area enables them to identify needs, understand the impacts of an emergency more accurately, and help ensure that response actions are relevant, timely and in line with community priorities.

“In an emergency, responding does not simply mean acting quickly; it means, above all, listening to those experiencing the situation and recognising the expertise of the organisations that have historically supported their communities. That is why we are working closely with partner and allied organisations in Chocó and Buenaventura to understand the needs and potential gaps in the response, placing the voices and priorities of the communities at the centre,” says María Rodríguez, Project Coordinator at Oxfam Colombia

Together with partner and allied organisations, Oxfam Colombia is adopting an intersectional approach that recognises that the impacts of an emergency are not experienced in the same way by everyone. This process aims to ensure that any action taken responds to the realities, capacities and priorities of the communities, recognising in particular the conditions of inequality and pre-existing vulnerabilities that can be exacerbated during an emergency.

Oxfam Colombia expresses its solidarity with the individuals, families and communities currently facing the consequences of this emergency, and will continue to monitor the situation on the ground alongside local organisations.