Bolivia is in a critical situation due to the forest fires that have affected a large part of the country since June 2024. The national emergency was declared on September 7, mainly affecting the Amazon and Chiquitania regions. These areas include the departments of Beni, Pando and Santa Cruz, where serious damage has been reported. Cáritas Bolivia, with a presence in all affected departments, has focused its response on these areas, carrying out evaluations to identify the most urgent needs, such as the provision of protective equipment for volunteer firefighters, medicines and food aid for displaced communities.

The work of Cáritas Bolivia is fundamental in the current emergency. The organization has deployed teams to affected areas, where communities face challenges such as crop loss, damage to homes and serious deterioration in health due to air pollution. Cáritas is evaluating the delivery of cash or multipurpose vouchers so that people can meet their basic needs quickly and flexibly. In addition, they are working closely with local authorities and other humanitarian agencies to coordinate an effective response, including the distribution of hygiene supplies and food.

Given the magnitude of this crisis, Cáritas Bolivia has launched an urgent call to the international community for support. The fires have devastated more than 3 million hectares, affecting thousands of families who now depend on humanitarian aid. The organization needs resources to continue providing life-saving assistance, such as personal protective equipment for firefighters, medicine and rehydration solutions, as well as reconstruction materials for destroyed homes.

It is crucial that efforts be joined to support Cáritas Bolivia in its mission to help communities affected by the forest fires. The work they do not only helps save lives and property, but also restores the dignity of those who have lost everything. Each contribution, whether in kind, monetary or in the form of volunteering, is a step towards the recovery of these devastated areas, ensuring that families can rebuild their lives with hope and security.

With information and photography from Cáritas Bolivia