The flash flood of 26 August struck numerous communities in Nepal’s Rasuwa and Nuwakot districts, severely damaging homes and vital infrastructure. Photo: TERRA Projekte International/ADH

Malteser International Asia Pacific is supporting women and girls affected by the devastating flash floods in Nepal, as communities begin the long process of recovery.

The flash floods that struck Nepal on 26 August 2026 caused widespread devastation, claiming more than 1,500 lives and leaving thousands of people missing. Critical infrastructure has been destroyed, homes and communities have been affected, and survivors continue to face significant emotional and psychological challenges.

In the immediate aftermath, emergency assistance provided by the Order of Malta’s international relief agency, Malteser International, helped affected people access essential supplies, including clean drinking water, hygiene items and food, as well as safe places to sleep.

This immediate response was vital in helping people meet their most urgent needs. However, as the full scale of the disaster has become clearer, it is evident that recovery will take time and continued support.

Supporting women and girls through recovery

As communities begin rebuilding, Malteser International Asia Pacific is undertaking a six-month initiative to support women and girls affected by the floods, with a particular focus on pregnant and breastfeeding women.

These women face specific challenges in the aftermath of a disaster, particularly when essential services and infrastructure have been damaged and access to safe, private spaces for personal hygiene and infant care is limited.

Working in partnership with KOSHISH, a local organisation with which Malteser International has a longstanding relationship, the initiative will provide three key forms of support:

• Hygiene and dignity kits to help women and girls maintain personal hygiene and dignity in challenging circumstances.
• Psychosocial support to help survivors manage the emotional and psychological impact of the disaster.
• Mother-and-baby-friendly spaces offering privacy and a safe environment for mothers to care for their infants.

The six-month initiative is intended to help meet these needs while essential infrastructure is being rebuilt and affected communities work towards recovery.

Recovery will take time

Although the immediate emergency response has provided essential assistance, the challenges facing flood-affected communities remain significant. The destruction of critical infrastructure and the psychological toll of the disaster mean that support must extend beyond the initial relief phase.

Malteser International Asia Pacific, together with local partner KOSHISH, is working to address the needs of particularly vulnerable women and girls during this difficult period.

The transition from emergency relief to longer-term recovery is an important step in helping affected communities regain stability, dignity and a sense of security.

Continuing the work together

The response in Nepal has been made possible in part by the generosity of supporters who have contributed to relief efforts. Their support has helped provide essential assistance and is helping make further recovery initiatives possible.

As the work progresses, further updates will be shared on the implementation and impact of the six-month initiative.

While the road to recovery remains long, continued support and collaboration with local partners will be essential in helping affected communities rebuild their lives.

How you can help

Members, friends and supporters of the Order of Malta Australia are invited to support Malteser International Asia Pacific’s relief efforts in Nepal.

Gifts $2 and more are tax deductible for Australian taxpayers.