ADB Prepares $3 Million Emergency Grant to Aid Myanmar Earthquake Victims

The earthquake has caused widespread destruction, worsening the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Myanmar and exacerbating the challenges faced by millions of people in the region.

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) is preparing a substantial emergency grant of $3 million to support immediate humanitarian and emergency relief efforts for the people of Myanmar following the devastating 7.7 magnitude earthquake that struck the country on March 28. The earthquake has caused widespread destruction, worsening the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Myanmar and exacerbating the challenges faced by millions of people in the region.

This emergency grant, which is in the process of being expedited for swift approval by ADB’s Board of Directors, will be delivered in collaboration with the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP). The funds will be utilized to address urgent needs by distributing in-kind food and providing multi-purpose cash assistance to affected individuals. These cash transfers will enable families to purchase essential items, including medical supplies, shelter materials, drinking water, and other vital resources required for survival and recovery.

In addition to addressing the immediate needs of the affected population, the grant will help bolster Myanmar's emergency response capacities as the country grapples with the consequences of the earthquake, including the destruction of homes, infrastructure, and essential services. This timely intervention aims to reduce the suffering of vulnerable groups, particularly those in the hardest-hit regions, by providing them with the basic necessities to restore their lives.

“The scale of this disaster is overwhelming, and our thoughts are with the people of Myanmar during this incredibly difficult time,” said ADB Director General for Southeast Asia Winfried Wicklein. “We are deeply concerned about the impact the earthquake has had on vulnerable communities, and we are committed to immediately mobilizing resources to help them recover. This emergency grant is just the beginning; we are also exploring additional support to address the long-term needs of the people in Myanmar through ADB’s Asia Pacific Disaster Response Fund (APDRF).”

The APDRF is a key initiative that provides fast-tracked funding to ADB’s developing member countries, enabling them to respond quickly to the humanitarian crises caused by major natural disasters. The fund was established to offer flexible and efficient financial assistance during the immediate aftermath of large-scale disasters, ensuring that critical needs are met in a timely and organized manner.

In Myanmar, the earthquake has further strained the already precarious situation, as millions continue to face ongoing challenges due to conflict, displacement, and poverty. The World Food Programme (WFP) has been actively involved in the country’s humanitarian response, providing food assistance, nutritional support, and essential supplies to those in need. The collaboration with the ADB will further strengthen the ongoing relief efforts, allowing for a broader and more coordinated response.

The ADB’s emergency relief package, while addressing immediate needs, is just one part of the broader effort to help Myanmar recover from this devastating natural disaster. In addition to the $3 million grant, the ADB is exploring the possibility of providing additional support through its Community Development Window of Asian Development Fund 14, which is designed to help countries in Asia and the Pacific overcome long-term development challenges.

Myanmar’s government has expressed gratitude for the swift and substantial assistance from the ADB and other international partners. The earthquake has created widespread damage across multiple regions, and the road to recovery will be long and arduous. However, the support being provided by the ADB, WFP, and other international stakeholders will play a crucial role in alleviating the suffering of the affected population and helping the country rebuild in the aftermath of this tragedy.

The ADB’s efforts in Myanmar align with its broader commitment to promoting regional stability, economic development, and disaster resilience in Asia. By offering emergency support in times of crisis, the ADB continues to strengthen its role as a key partner in disaster management and humanitarian assistance across the region.

In the coming weeks, the ADB and WFP will continue to monitor the situation closely, working with local governments and partners to ensure the delivery of essential aid and to plan for the next steps in the recovery process. This ongoing support is expected to help the people of Myanmar rebuild their lives and restore their communities in the wake of this devastating earthquake.