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The International Monetary Fund (IMF) is providing $346 million in aid for the reconstruction and emergency relief efforts in earthquake-devastated Venezuela. The country’s Acting President, Delcy Rodriguez, and IMF chief Kristalina Georgieva have confirmed the release of this substantial fund.
Meanwhile, the extent of damage in the country continues to rise following the twin earthquakes that struck last month. According to the official report by Jorge Rodriguez, President of the National Assembly, the death toll from this disaster has now climbed to 5,119.
Official reports indicate that two powerful earthquakes, measuring 7.2 and 7.5 magnitudes, struck northern Venezuela last month, and approximately 1,350 aftershocks have been recorded since the main tremors. So far, 16,740 people have been severely injured in this disaster, and 6,462 individuals have been rescued alive from the rubble.
The intense tremors have severely damaged 856 buildings across the country, with 190 buildings completely collapsing, leaving 17,907 people entirely homeless. To provide emergency shelter for the affected, 107 temporary camps have been established, accommodating over 21,000 people. Additionally, more than 100,000 families are receiving various forms of emergency assistance.
A large workforce has been deployed for rescue and relief operations to tackle this perilous situation.
In the affected areas, 2,278 international rescuers and approximately 31,000 emergency responders are working day and night, supported by over 31,000 local volunteers. To facilitate the survival of the distressed population, the government has already distributed over 10 million food items and more than 32 million liters of drinking water.
Venezuela’s Acting President, Delcy Rodriguez, stated in a statement on the social media platform ‘X’ that the $346 million received from the IMF’s own reserved funds will be directly used for the rehabilitation of the affected population, the reconstruction of collapsed infrastructure, and the restoration of essential public services. She expressed special thanks to IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva for standing by them in this critical moment. On the other hand, IMF chief Kristalina Georgieva also expressed deep sympathy for the people of Venezuela, confirmed the release of emergency funds, and stated that they are working collaboratively with other key partners to meet urgent humanitarian needs.