In a world where crises and emergencies are becoming increasingly prevalent, building resilient communities and empowering civil society organizations (CSOs) to respond effectively is crucial. Thanks to a collaborative with I4C MENA partner in Iraq The Station, a remarkable success story emerged from Iraq and the MENA region. This journey focused on enhancing the capacities of CSOs and grassroots communities in emergency response planning, resilience, and adaptation. Through practical training and targeted support, this initiative not only achieved its objectives but also sowed the seeds of hope and preparedness for a brighter, safer future.
Phase 1: Identifying Needs and Developing a Practical Toolkit
The first step involved understanding the needs of regional CSOs and grassroots organizations related to emergency response planning, resilience, and adaptation. An online assessment was conducted, gathering valuable insights from activists and CSO workers in Iraq. The assessment formed the foundation for a practical toolkit tailored to the unique challenges faced by CSOs in the MENA region.
Phase 2: Empowering Trainers and Participants
Armed with the toolkit, the team proceeded to conduct two Training of Trainers (ToT) sessions. The first was an in-person session in Mosul, Iraq, where twelve CSO representatives from various parts of the country participated. Following this, an online ToT session was held for 16 CSO representatives from different MENA countries. The training provided participants with essential skills in emergency planning and response, fostering a network of preparedness advocates across the region.
Phase 3: Putting Knowledge into Action
The impact of the training sessions was evident as five emergency response plans were developed. Among them, three plans stood out, earning $1500 sub-grants for implementation. These plans were meticulously designed and focused on areas such as cyber security, data management, proactive infection prevention, and community resilience.
Wasel Tassel: In Mosul, Iraq, this sub-grant initiative established an active stakeholder network dedicated to strengthening community resilience through emergency medical aid and proactive infection prevention. By training 60 participants and launching an online awareness campaign, the project reached over 5000 individuals in the local community. Noor, one of the community volunteers, shared her inspiring journey, empowered with new skills to prevent infections and provide first aid to those in need.
Volunteer with Us: This sub-grant aimed to strengthen the capacity of 20 CSOs and grassroots organizations in Mosul, Iraq, amid the challenges brought by the COVID-19 pandemic. The two-day workshop and online campaign engaged over 5000 people, enhancing the preparedness and response abilities of the participating organizations. This project showcased how knowledge and resources can be harnessed to safeguard lives and promote community resilience.
Green Iraq: Strengthening the response capabilities of 15 Iraqi CSOs in Mosul, this sub-grant empowered organizations to effectively address crises and advocate for vulnerable communities. The comprehensive two-day training on cyber security, data management, and other relevant topics equipped the CSOs with essential skills. The operational guide provided by Green Iraq facilitated effective crisis responses and improved community outreach.
Outcomes and Conclusion:
Through the successful implementation of this initiative, the capacities of CSOs and grassroots communities in Iraq and MENA countries have been significantly enhanced. Community resilience has been bolstered, and coordination among key actors in emergency response planning has improved. By investing in practical training and supporting the implementation of response plans, lives have been safeguarded, and communities have become better equipped to face future challenges.
This success story is a testament to the power of collaboration and the transformative impact of empowering local communities. It stands as a beacon of hope, showcasing how proactive measures and practical training can lead to a brighter and safer future for all. The Station and the I4C MENA Hub, along with the dedicated CSOs and grassroots organizations, have truly made a difference and are beacons of inspiration for others seeking to build resilient communities worldwide.
Together, we are creating a world that is better prepared to face emergencies and crises head-on, with strength, compassion, and resilience.