The National Center for Support in Epidemiological Contingencies and Disasters, CENACED, along with 180 public, private, and civil society institutions, is working on the reconstruction of communities affected by climate contingencies, such as hurricanes Otis and John in Guerrero, as well as other disasters. Elisa Mariel Trujillo, the general director of CENACED, emphasizes that their work focuses on saving lives, reducing suffering, and building resilience in communities.
Trujillo stresses that disasters are not natural, but socially constructed, and that human responsibility plays a crucial role in mitigating tragedies. From CENACED, in collaboration with the United Nations, the aim is to reduce the vulnerability and exposure of communities to disasters, not only by providing response but also by working on prevention and preparedness measures.
CENACED has been present in Guerrero, especially in Acapulco, responding to hurricanes Otis and John that struck the region. More than 139,000 people in 112 communities have benefited, and 14 projects have been implemented to build capacities in areas such as health, education, and critical infrastructure.
The humanitarian work coordinated by CENACED has allowed for learning the importance of "doing good well," avoiding codependence with the benefiting communities. Respect for human dignity and the adaptation of aid to the real needs of each affected place is emphasized. They work with a community-centered approach and in building local capacities.
One of the most significant contributions of CENACED has been the development of a manual for building resilient communities in the face of disasters. Through experiences in places like Escuinapa, Sinaloa, a set of guidelines backed by the United Nations and other technical organizations has been developed. This manual aims to strengthen community resilience by promoting risk knowledge so that people can make informed decisions in crisis situations and protect themselves and their families.
