Home » Operations » Gambia Floods

Gambia Floods

Years :
  • 2022
Incidents :
  • Floods
Country :
  • Gambia

Description of the mission

Participants :
  • NO
Requester :
  • OCHA

In response to the severe flooding that affected The Gambia in July and August 2022, IHP, with Norway’s contribution, played a pivotal role in supporting the United Nations Disaster Assessment and Coordination (UNDAC) team’s operations. The floods, which struck on July 30-31 and again on August 4-5, caused significant destruction across Greater Banjul, North Bank, Central River, and Upper River regions, displacing over 7,400 people and affecting more than 50,000 others.

Norway, through its participation in the International Humanitarian Partnership (IHP), responded by providing critical Information and Communication Technology (ICT) support to the UNDAC team on the ground. The floods caused widespread damage to infrastructure, including communication networks, making it difficult for relief teams to effectively coordinate efforts. To address this challenge, Norway deployed advanced ICT kits, which included satellite communication devices, mobile internet hotspots, and portable power solutions. This deployment enabled the UNDAC team to maintain reliable communication in the affected areas, ensuring that response teams could share data in real-time and make informed decisions.

The ICT resources provided by Norway were crucial in establishing a solid communications framework, which facilitated coordination between humanitarian organizations, local government agencies, and the affected communities. The secure and continuous communication allowed responders to assess the damage, prioritize relief needs, and mobilize resources effectively.

With limited infrastructure in place due to the floods, Norway’s contribution ensured that the UNDAC team could overcome connectivity barriers and support efforts to mitigate the crisis. This timely ICT intervention played a vital role in optimizing the response and ensuring that aid reached the most vulnerable populations in a timely manner.

The operational support provided by Norway, through IHP, enhanced the overall effectiveness of the humanitarian response in The Gambia.

Cover Photo Credit: UNOSSC

Essential equipment supporting humanitarian success

Explore the critical equipment deployed during this humanitarian mission. From advanced medical supplies to innovative logistical solutions, each resource was meticulously selected to address urgent needs on the ground. These tools exemplify our commitment to delivering efficient, effective, and tailored support in the most challenging environments.
  • Coordination support, ICT Support

Other missions

  • TRIPLEX
  • 1998

TRIPLEX 1998

In June 1998, TRIPLEX took place in Camberley and at Manston Airfield in the UK, building on the success of the inaugural exercise. Organized by the International Humanitarian Partnership (IHP), this large-scale simulation brought together humanitarian organizations, UN agencies, and EU Civil Protection teams to practice disaster response in a realistic and controlled environment. The exercise focused on improving coordination, assessments, and logistical support, with participants addressing challenges such as rapid deployment and operational interoperability. TRIPLEX 1998 highlighted the importance of collaboration and preparedness, reinforcing the capacity of humanitarian actors to respond effectively to complex emergencies.
  • Drought
  • 2013

Marshall Islands Drought

In 2013, a severe drought in the Marshall Islands led to a humanitarian crisis, with widespread water shortages and food insecurity. IHP, with Sweden providing ICT support, assisted OCHA in coordinating relief efforts, ensuring effective communication and logistical support to the affected communities.
  • Landslide
  • 2008

Alta Verapaz Landslide

In response to the January 4, 2009 landslide in Alta Verapaz, Guatemala, Norway, through IHP, provided ICT support to UNDAC. The deployment included satellite phones, laptops, and internet access, enabling effective coordination and rapid needs assessments in the remote, disaster-stricken area. This support was vital for streamlining relief efforts and aiding affected communities.

Log In

Log in