Don’t drop the ball – Postcard from Pakistan

The 2010 floods in Pakistan had devastating consequences.

In Pakistan, this time of year is our rainy season. From July to September, we expect rain that will help to grow farmers’ crops. But in 2008 and 2009 the areas where we work had very little rain. Not just for a day, or even a week, but for three whole months of what was supposed to be the rainy season. Because of this, there was a severe shortage of food.

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Alongside the devastating droughts, the people of Pakistan also face floods during the monsoon season that destroy crops and sometimes homes. To help people adapt to the floods, such as the huge ones we saw in 2010, they need to be able to build homes from different materials as opposed to traditional mud. Grants also need to be made available for the organisations that help people to deal with the disasters. Following a flood or drought, the money should help men and women to meet their immediate needs, such as shelter or food and then ongoing support should enable them to earn a living once again.

My message to CAFOD supporters is to please take action in the UK to reduce the causes of climate change. I would ask them to ask the UK government to provide money to help plant trees in areas prone to flooding. Trees help because they absorb excess water and prevent floods. I’d also like to ask the UK Government to provide long-term financial assistance to communities to strengthen their ability to cope with future disasters. In this we appreciate all the help CAFOD’s supporters provide.

Yours

Christina

Christina Peter is the Chairperson of the Association for Women’s Awareness and Rural Development  (AWARD)

 CAFOD is campaigning on climate justice during 2011. Find resources and take action at cafod.org.uk/dontdroptheball