Rahat: Advancing Anticipatory Action through Blockchain-Based Solutions
A comprehensive white paper exploring how blockchain technology revolutionizes humanitarian response through transparent, efficient, and inclusive anticipatory action frameworks.
5 Hours 23 Minutes
Time to distribute cash to 774 households after trigger activation
98.3% Effectiveness
Beneficiaries found early warning communications helpful
24 Hours
Reduced reporting time from weeks to less than 24 hours
Executive Summary
Anticipatory Action (AA) is a forward-looking strategy in disaster response, designed to mitigate the effects of predictable hazards by initiating actions before a crisis fully materializes. This approach leverages early warnings, pre-agreed actions, and pre-arranged financing to safeguard lives, protect livelihoods, and preserve human dignity.
Rahat, an open-source, transparent, and decentralized financial access platform built on blockchain technology, is specifically engineered to bolster the resilience of vulnerable communities against various shocks, including climate-related events. Derived from the Nepali word for "relief," Rahat streamlines the anticipatory action process by leveraging blockchain's inherent qualities of immutability, transparency, and efficiency.
Research Sections
Introduction to Anticipatory Action
Comprehensive overview of AA frameworks, key terminology, and the three core elements: pre-agreed triggers, pre-agreed activities, and pre-arranged financing.
- Preparedness and Response Strategies
- Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR)
- Impact-Based Forecasting
Rahat Platform Overview
Detailed examination of Rahat's blockchain-powered architecture and its role as a digital Cash and Voucher Assistance (CVA) management system.
- Blockchain Technology Benefits
- GSMA Innovation Fund Grantee
- Nepal Pilot Success Stories
Rahat's Framework for Anticipatory Action
Forecast Integration & Triggers
Multi-signature trigger mechanisms with automated and manual validation systems
- GLoFAS Integration
- DHM Nepal Data
- Multi-signature Security
Communication Systems
Multi-channel early warning communications reaching vulnerable populations
- SMS & IVR Services
- 49-minute Alert Delivery
- Multilingual Support
Cash & Voucher Assistance
Blockchain-based digital tokens for transparent and efficient aid distribution
- Digital Token System
- Local Vendor Network
- Offline Functionality
Activity Management
Comprehensive project management across preparedness, readiness, and activation phases
- Phased Approach
- Automated Activities
- Field Staff Tools
Monitoring & Evaluation
Real-time dashboards and reporting for continuous improvement and accountability
- Real-time Dashboards
- 24-hour Reporting
- Offline Sync
Beneficiary Management
Non-PII data management with precise targeting and assistance tracking
- Smart Targeting
- Privacy Protection
- Assistance Tracking
Proven Impact & Results
Conclusion
Rahat represents a significant leap forward in applying frontier technologies to humanitarian aid, especially within Anticipatory Action. By providing a transparent, efficient, and inclusive platform for managing early warnings, triggers, communications, and cash-based interventions, Rahat empowers aid agencies and communities to act decisively and effectively before a disaster strikes.
As the world faces increasing climate-related hazards and complex humanitarian crises, Rahat offers a scalable and adaptable solution that can enhance the speed, dignity, and effectiveness of humanitarian response. Its proven impact in pilot projects in Nepal underscores its potential to protect lives and livelihoods and build long-term resilience for vulnerable populations globally.
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