©InfoIn 2006, a massive landslide completely destroyed Devi Maya Tumbapo’s house. Not only did she lose her home but also her land from which she cultivated and produced crops for a living.
Devi, 49, from Chogmagu village, says: “Where we were living, landslides had been troubling people for many years. The situation was unpredictable and I got quite restless whenever it started to rain. Each year, the landscape changed and houses on the slope began to tilt more and more.”
With the help of a Red Cross programme that helps communities reduce the risk of disaster, Devi, her husband and father-in-law have been able to move to a safer area. She says: “Before, we were constantly sick with worry but had no alternative. We feel much happier and safer where we have our new house.”
Starting a new business
After moving, Devi had to find a new way to make a living. She says: “I took out an income generation loan of 2,000 rupees [£27] from the disaster risk reduction unit that had been set up by the Red Cross. I discussed with my husband how we could use the money to improve our lives and he suggested we buy a pig and invest the rest in vegetable farming.
“Our pig produced seven piglets and we sold each one for 7,000 rupees [£94]. I was then able to repay the loan, including the small interest. With our profit, we also bought two buffalos, and one is currently pregnant.”
Saving for a better future
“We have worked really hard and our buffalos and pig are doing well, and so is our vegetable garden,” Devi says, with a broad smile on her face. “I get advice as and when I need to, from the disaster risk reduction unit on how to look after the livestock.
“The Red Cross programme has changed my life. Without it, life would be like midnight, just full of darkness. But now, I am able to deal with disaster and the future is bright. We can generate enough income to support ourselves.
“I hope to carry on what I am doing and plan to save my profits, so that one day I will be able to send my grandchildren to school.”
Read Laxmi's story
More about preparing for disasters