COVID-19 pandemic and its continuing impacts on Myanmar are still unfolding. To address COVID-19, Catholic Bishop Conference of Myanmar (CBCM) and Karuna Mission Social Solidarity (KMSS) has formed a COVID Response Coordination Unit to support interventions to minimize spread of COVID-19 virus.
Utilizing the widespread resources available through the Catholic Church network, in partnership with CSOs and working with government departments and EAOs, CBCM and KMSS intervene for COVID-19 through various dissemination points. We were able to respond fast and reach to remote and isolated places for Spreading COVID awareness and prevention message, Hand Washing and Hygiene Promotion, Church facilities as Quarantine Centers, Protecting Front Line Workers and ensuring Food Security of the Most Vulnerable People.
Between March and October 2020, CBCM and KMSS could reach out to at least 1,715,254 (Male 808,515 and Female 906,793) people living in 1,877 villages of 191 townships, across 14 States/Regions of Myanmar, including non-government-controlled areas. These included communities and excluded groups who are IDPs, Orphans, People with Disabilities and 60+ years old.
Reach and effectiveness of CBCM and KMSS for COVID-19 actions was amplified by collaboration with several CSOs across Myanmar. Government departments across all States/Regions provided great supports to CBCM and KMSS for their COVID-19 response efforts. KMSS and CBCM was able to reach non-government-controlled areas with cooperation of EAOs and provided preventive items and care supports to people quarantined at their controlled areas.
