Shelters for Rohingya Refugees

BASMAH Rebuilds 500 Emergency Shelters for Rohingya Refugees in 2021

April 18, 2024

Imagine losing the only roof over your head in a matter of seconds. For refugees already living in fragile conditions, a safe shelter is not just a structure—it is their only line of defense against the elements and their only space for privacy and dignity. Recently, severe flash floods and landslides tore through the Rohingya refugee settlements at Camp 17 and Camp 8. In moments, the rushing waters and shifting earth destroyed the makeshift homes of hundreds of families, leaving them exposed and vulnerable once again. When disaster strikes, the response must be swift. This is the story of how BASMAH turned a crisis into an opportunity to restore safety and hope for hundreds of displaced families.

When Crisis Strikes: The Flash Flood Emergency

Life in the refugee camps is already precarious. The shelters, often constructed from bamboo and tarpaulin, are susceptible to the violent weather patterns of the region. The recent flash floods were unforgiving, washing away homes and belongings in Camp 17 and Camp 8. Hundreds of families found themselves under the open sky, their safety compromised. The immediate need was not just for food or water, but for a secure place to sleep—a fundamental human right that had been washed away by the rain.

Authorized to Serve: A Mark of Trust

Recognizing the scale of the destruction, the government of Bangladesh issued an urgent call for NGO partners to step forward. In this critical moment, the government entrusted and authorized BASMAH to take charge of the shelter reconstruction. This authorization is more than just a permit; it is a significant mark of trust and responsibility. It validates BASMAH’s capability to deliver high-quality aid effectively and transparently. We accepted this honor with a deep sense of duty to the Ummah, mobilizing our teams immediately to begin the complex process of reconstruction.

I’m on the advisory board of this great organization, Basmah. And I’m saying to you, from a man on the inside, they do a lot of incredible work. I’m amazed every day by more and more work; they don’t stop, they never stop.

Imam Siraj Wahhaj

Honorary advisor of BASMAH

500 Homes: Action on the Ground

Entrusted with this responsibility, BASMAH did not waste a moment. Our teams successfully constructed over 500 shelters for the affected families. These are not just temporary fixes; they are sturdy structures designed to provide safety, privacy, and well-being. The construction process was rigorous, ensuring that every family received a home that could withstand the challenges of camp life. To ensure the highest standards were met, BASMAH CEO Meer Hossain personally visited the camps. He monitored the construction progress, ensuring that every donation was used efficiently and that the project was completed smoothly. His presence on the ground highlights our commitment to transparency and our hands-on approach to humanitarian aid.

More Than Just Shelter

While a roof overhead is vital, a community needs more to thrive. BASMAH’s response extended beyond individual homes. We strengthened the overall camp infrastructure to improve living conditions for everyone. Our teams repaired mosques and other essential community facilities damaged by the storm. In a community where faith is a source of immense strength, restoring these places of worship helps rebuild the spiritual heart of the camp. This holistic approach aligns with our broader impact. Since 2021, BASMAH has built a total of 955 homes and constructed 37 mosques across our project areas. We understand that rebuilding lives requires addressing physical, social, and spiritual needs simultaneously.

A Legacy of Impact

This recent project is part of a larger mission. BASMAH acts as a lifeline for the Rohingya community across 33 camps. Our track record speaks to the power of your generosity:

Clean Water: We have installed over 4,444 water wells, ensuring families have safe water to drink.
Healthcare: Our medical centers have treated over 498,000 patients, bringing healing to those with nowhere else to turn.
Nutrition: We have distributed over 971,990 meals, fighting hunger in the most vulnerable corners of the camps.

Every shelter built and every mosque repaired adds to these numbers, proving that when we come together, we can transform devastation into dignity.

Help Us Sustain the Hope

The shelters at Camp 17 and Camp 8 are now standing, filled with families who can sleep safely tonight. However, the camps remain vulnerable to future weather events, and these structures require maintenance to last.
Your support allows us to respond immediately when the next emergency occurs. By donating to our shelter and maintenance funds, you are not just giving money; you are giving security, warmth, and hope to a family in desperate need.
Together, we can continue to be the answer to their prayers.