In the face of recurring floods that threaten homes and livelihoods, the Community-Led Action for Resilience and Empowerment (CLARE) initiative has embarked on a mission to empower vulnerable communities. On the 29th of February, the REBUMAA team, comprising members from the Nigerian Red Cross Society, University of Hamburg, and IFRC, visited Isheri Community, located along the Ogun River on the border of Lagos State, Nigeria.

His Royal Majesty, Oba Sulaiman Adekunle Bamgbade, the traditional ruler of Isheri community greeted the team as they arrived, symbolizing a inportant moment in the community’s journey towards resilience.

With a shared commitment to understanding and addressing the challenges posed by recurrent floods, the team engaged in comprehensive interviews and on-the-spot assessments. These interactions provided invaluable insights into the multifaceted impacts of floods and the adaptive strategies employed by the inhabitants of Isheri over the years. Isheri, among the three communities selected in Ogun State for its vulnerability to riverine floods, stood as a testament to the unwavering spirit of its people amidst adversity.

Beyond Ogun State, the REBUMAA project extends its reach to three communities each in Kwara and Enugu States, fostering a network of support and empowerment across regions.

The journey towards resilience is not merely about mitigating risks; it is about fostering a sense of belonging, solidarity, and shared responsibility. Through CLARE’s collaborative efforts, communities will be empowered to take ownership of their destinies, forging pathways to sustainable development and collective well-being.

As the REBUMAA project continues to unfold, its impact reverberates far beyond physical infrastructure and technical solutions. It embodies the resilience of the human spirit, the power of partnership, and the transformative potential of community-led action.