The primary objective was to enhance community resilience to future climate shocks. This strategy entailed comprehensive data collection on the impacts and livelihood losses incurred, achieved through surveys and drone flights employing georeferencing technology. The subsequent phase focused on providing support for the reconstruction of affected homes and livelihoods. UNDP spearheaded the adoption of the Home and Building Damage Assessment (HBDA) methodology, facilitating real-time data collection and analysis at the household and building levels. Mapping initiatives covered residential, commercial, and public structures, initially concentrating on urban areas before expanding to rural locales.  

By leveraging the HBDA, crucial information was made available to governmental and local authorities to prioritize rehabilitation and reconstruction efforts effectively. Drawing from successful implementations in over 15 countries, this tool enabled the collection, analysis, and visualization of data pertinent to Hurricane Fiona's impact on buildings and livelihoods in Sabana de la Mar and adjacent regions. The visualization and analysis of this data informed evidence-based decision-making, guiding national policies and reconstruction plans. Supported by the Sabana de la Mar City Council, the government of Hato Mayor, and the Civil Defense, this initiative aimed to address the widespread devastation caused by Hurricane Fiona, estimated to have incurred losses of RD$20,000 million and destroyed approximately 8,000 homes.  

Furthermore, with assistance from the UNDP office in Colombia and collaboration with the Acceleration Laboratories of Colombia and the Dominican Republic, drone mapping initiatives supplemented the data collection efforts, enhancing sample selection and complementing information derived from the HBDA. UNDP's extensive network of laboratories globally contributed invaluable tools and knowledge toward accelerating sustainable development solutions. With a longstanding commitment to emergency response and early recovery, UNDP has played a pivotal role in facilitating recovery and resilience-building efforts, ensuring access to essential services, social protection, and justice in emergency contexts for over two decades. 

This article was originally published in: https://www.undp.org/es/dominican-republic/noticias/undp-intellisys-and-pucmm-bring-online-medical-services-rural-community-jarabacoa