Assessment of Reconstruction Needs and Resources

Assessment of reconstruction needs and resources
is essential for successful recovery after a disaster.
It ensures that those involved in helping with the
reconstruction process both understand fully the
needs of the affected people, and have up-todate
knowledge of the available local resources
so that any deficit can be met by reconstruction
agencies or authorities can. In order to reduce the
vulnerability of those affected, these assessments
must focus not only on rebuilding and repairing
damaged or destroyed houses and infrastructure,
but also on rebuilding people’s livelihoods and
restoring local markets.
Such assessments are also important as they:
support communities in rebuilding and recovery;
ensure that the planning and coordination of
reconstruction activities is relevant and responsive
to the needs of communities, particularly the
vulnerable; and ensure recovery work is focused on
the priorities of disaster-affected people rather than
those of civil servants or aid workers. In addition,
involving affected communities in assessment
implementation, working alongside NGOs and
local authorities, enables stakeholders to work in
partnership, make informed decisions together, and
pave the way for participatory reconstruction.