community-based disaster risk management and the media media kit

chapter 5. country CBDRM case studies
work is a major element of Oxfam’s approach in Timor-
Léste. While DM response capacity is always important,
Oxfam’s approach encompasses strategies aimed at
reducing risks faced by the most vulnerable communities
and the most vulnerable within those communities.
Recognizing the gender issues related to vulnerabilities
and capacities, Oxfam strives to integrate gender analysis
within all aspects of its DM work.
The focus of Oxfam’s DM work is on CBDM, including
CBDRM, in three target districts - Oecusse, Covalima
and Liquica districts - along with a smaller engagement
in other districts where Oxfam is working. In February
2002, Oxfam provided some initial Participatory Capacity
and Vulnerability Analysis (PCVA) training with staff and
partner CSOs and in February 2003 some basic DM
orientation for staff and partners. In the fi rst half of 2003,
Oxfam assisted drought affected communities in Oecusse
district to access seeds and increase their awareness of
nutritional practices. In mid-2003, it assisted community
groups in fl ood affected communities in Covalima to
organize and link in with the district administration. In late
2003 and early 2004, more focused CBDM work began
when Oxfam began providing CBDM training and support
for government and civil society in the three target districts.
The focus thus far has been on building up basic knowledge
and skills around CBDM, including some review of past
emergency relief activities and the commencement of
some local contingency planning. In conjunction with this
district based work, Oxfam provides national level support
to and coordinates closely with the NDMO. The focus of
this support is on building up the capacity of the NDMO to
liaise with CSOs and other agencies in the development
of DM policy and practice, including developing regular
monitoring of community vulnerability and in designing
and implementing appropriate public education and
awareness raising campaigns. Oxfam has also sponsored
East Timorese to regional workshops related to CBDM.
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