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Introduction

Anticipatory Action (AA) is a forward-looking humanitarian approach that delivers aid before a disaster strikes, using forecast data to reduce human suffering and economic loss. Acting in anticipation holds immense potential to save lives and minimize losses. However, in many cases, the available lead time before a hazard strikes is too short to complete all necessary actions.

Rahat addresses this challenge by leveraging blockchain-based smart contracts and configurable multi-signature mechanisms to automate critical anticipatory actions as soon as the activation phase is triggered. These include:

  • Sending text and voice-based early warning communications to beneficiaries and stakeholders
  • Disbursing digital tokens to pre-registered beneficiaries

This ensures that aid and information are distributed timely, securely, and transparently as soon as predefined triggers are met. By automating these time-sensitive processes, Rahat significantly improves the efficiency and speed of early action—particularly in disseminating lifesaving alerts and distributing aid.

Anticipatory action is still an emerging approach in disaster risk reduction. The potential of technology, especially blockchain, to expedite and scale early actions remains largely untapped. Rahat aims to bridge this gap by offering a digital solution tailored to the unique time-critical needs of anticipatory humanitarian response.

To learn more about how Rahat can be used in anticipatory approaches, visit the AA User Guide.

Project Showcase​

Explore our case studies showcasing how the Rahat AA module has been used to implement anticipatory action projects across different types of disasters:

Rahat Anticipatory Humanitarian Action 2024​

Case Study: bit.ly/4km4MEw

In Collaboration With:​

  • GSMA
  • Danish Red Cross
  • Blockchain for Anticipatory Action (B4A)
    Project Summary: bit.ly/4mhHd1u
  • Mercy Corps Nepal
  • Mercy Corps Ventures
  • Stellar

Impact Numbers​

  • 33,351 lives have been impacted through Rahat's anticipatory action efforts.
  • 4,583 individuals received early warning communications.
  • 4,583 beneficiaries at risk of climate shocks were supported via the Rahat platform.
  • The total number of early warning communications disseminated is currently being compiled.