Of loss and solidarity: one year after Myanmar's earthquake

The disastrous earthquake struck Daw Yin May on 28 March 2025, at around 12:50 p.m. At a magnitude of 7.7, it was one of the strongest earthquakes in Myanmar’s history. Six regions declared a state of emergency; thousands of people died, bridges and buildings collapsed. More than 17 million people were directly affected.

Daw Yin May was able to save her life. But all her belongings were destroyed. “We lost everything,” she said. Clothes, furniture, cooking utensils and her food supplies. The survivors shared what little food was still available. “The solidarity was incredible,” highlights Daw Yin May. After a few days, the first aid deliveries arrived. “Rice, oil, clothing, eggs, water buckets and kitchen utensils – that helped us get through the first few months.”

SWISSAID has been active in Myanmar since 1992. Since 2001, it has been working with its own team on the ground, maintaining close partnerships with other organisations in various regions. This long-standing network proved to be crucial during the crisis. “It enabled us to reach remote areas quickly, understand local dynamics and provide culturally and contextually appropriate support,” emphasises Kamam Zau Hkam, Country Representative of SWISSAID Myanmar.

One area of focus was the Inle region, where around 80 per cent of the buildings were destroyed or severely damaged. The region was in ruins once more after already having been hit by severe flooding the year before.

As is customary in acute emergency situations, SWISSAID provided cash so that people could buy essential goods themselves. At the same time, food and material for emergency shelters, such as tarpaulins, corrugated iron sheets, and blankets were brought to and distributed in the areas hardest hit by the earthquake.

The measures ensured survival in the first few weeks. But what followed – and continues to this day – is the tough mission of reconstruction. “The most urgent needs include the construction of robust housing, support in taking up employment again, measures to ensure food security, and access to health services,” says Kamam Zau Hkam. “We also want to improve the hygiene situation and provide targeted support to older people, women, children, and displaced families. Many also need psychosocial support to deal with trauma.”

Daw Yin May is determined to carry on: her goal is to resume tomato cultivation. Before the earthquake, the family was able to make a living from it. Today, however, the costs of maintaining and preparing the floating islands are too high, and all expenses have risen sharply. SWISSAID’s partner organisations are supporting the family with procuring resources. But there is still a long way to go. Yet, Daw Yin May remains positive: “We may not have much,” she says, “but we are rich in love.”

For Daw Shwe Khaing, too, living feels more like surviving to this day. Her house has still not been repaired, and renewed flooding has delayed the delivery of building materials. But she continues her work. “Every stitch I sew, every finished garment means school fees, books, and food on the table. I’m afraid of another earthquake – but I can’t give up for my children’s sake!”

Image credits: Rita Khin/Fairpicture