IFAW rushing aid to longtime partners during ongoing Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki eruption

Partnering with the National Agency for Disaster Countermeasure (BPBD), the Indonesian Army (TNI), and the Livestock Department, the team made their way to Klatanlo Village, just four kilometres from Mount Lewotobi. There they were met with at least 55 dogs, four cats, three pigs, two goats, one cow, and 80 poultry all struggling to survive in the face of dwindling resources. Sadly, one male dog had already died. 

But there were also moments of hope. The COP team soon also found a dog named Bimbo who had survived an excruciating 14 days. Severely dehydrated, Bimbo was immediately treated by the team and given the care he needed. 

Next, the team is on their way to Nawakote Village, the hardest hit area in this disaster, where they will continue to bring hope and relief to more communities in need. 

IFAW rushing aid to longtime partners

November 14, 2024

Indonesia’s Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki erupted for the first time on 3 November, and the powerful volcano has continued to send ash, lava, and smoke into the skies over East Nusa Tenggara, causing widespread devastation. The eruptions have tragically taken nine lives, damaged over 2,000 homes, and led to the evacuation of 13,000 residents. Lava flows have spread as far as 4,000 meters from the crater, and the risk zone has now expanded to nine kilometers around the summit. 

While emergency response efforts continue, there is an urgent need to protect and care for the many animals affected by this disaster. 

The Centre for Orangutan Protection (COP), IFAW’s partner in Indonesia for over a decade, is stepping up to lead this critical response for animals. Known for their expertise in rescuing and protecting wildlife, COP quickly mobilized to provide aid for companion and farm animals impacted by the eruption. 

COP is sending a team of three responders to the affected areas to conduct a rapid assessment of animal needs. With support from IFAW’s emergency grant, the team will distribute essential pet food and livestock feed to sustain the animals in impacted communities. This initial grant will ensure the COP team can cover travel during their seven-day deployment, as well as purchase food supplies to distribute. 

For IFAW, this aid is another meaningful chapter in our partnership with COP. Earlier this year, IFAW sponsored disaster response training for COP volunteers, using local expertise to build capacity for handling animal needs during emergencies. Local leaders are now equipped and confident to protect both people and animals in the face of disasters. 

As the eruption continues, IFAW remains committed to supporting COP’s response, as this expertise is invaluable. Together, we will continue working to ensure that animals are not forgotten in times of crisis.