Introduction
AKAH's methodology on Disaster Risk Management, Preparedness and Response programmes: Working with local governments and communities, AKAH implements a wide range of disaster risk reduction (DRR) programmes, particularly in South and Central Asia. DRR programmes include disaster preparedness education, specialist training and awareness initiatives, hazard assessments and small-scale mitigation projects for all levels of community and institutional structures, such as building flood retaining walls, reinforcing foot and vehicle bridges and creating irrigation channels. In partnership with local communities, AKAH has also relocated vulnerable buildings in regions of seismic risk - such as schools and health facilities - as well as built evacuation paths, safe havens and created stockpiles of vital supplies for use by local communities. By investing in the training of local community based professionals and volunteers, AKAH is able to increase local capacity, particularly in high mountain remote areas. Through its DRR programmes, AKAH facilitates vulnerable communities in responding to emergencies immediately and without relying solely on humanitarian aid. This enables trained volunteers to be the first responders in the event of a disaster and, importantly, capitalises on their local knowledge of the terrain, language and culture.
