The climate crisis is driving more frequent and severe natural disasters, contributing to unprecedented levels of displacement worldwide. In Myanmar, extreme weather events and armed conflict have displaced over 3.5 million persons, while shelter options remain limited. In September 2024, Typhoon Yagi caused widespread flooding, devastating infrastructure and agricultural lands across the country.

In response, UN-Habitat, under the Myanmar Climate Change Alliance Phase Two Programme (MCCA2) funded by the European Union, implemented a multi-sectoral recovery programme in flood-affected townships such as Taung Gyi and Kalaw. This effort followed an initial relief phase and included a Rapid Needs Assessment (RNA) and a detailed Post-Disaster Needs Assessment (PDNA) for the housing and infrastructure sector. Insights from these assessments informed Local Climate Action Plans (LCAPs), incorporating flood risk management and sponge city approaches to improve flood resilience.

The programme promoted disaster-resilient housing using locally available materials and low-tech, modular designs that community members can quickly assemble. Beyond housing, the initiative addressed water, energy, and food (WEF) security, ensuring integrated support for affected communities. Through participatory design techniques, local carpenters and displaced communities—including children—were trained to develop affordable, adaptable structures that serve both as learning spaces and emergency shelters.

These interventions highlight the importance of nature-based solutions (NbS) for climate adaptation. By strengthening flood mitigation through partnerships and promoting water-sensitive urban recovery, the programme fosters long-term resilience. Through active engagement with local communities in designing and constructing sustainable, flood-resilient shelters, MCCA2 empowered them to shape climate resilience planning—embracing innovation while preserving the region’s unique cultural and environmental identity.

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