After the volcano: Turning disaster into opportunity

This publication compiles a series of impact stories and best practices on livelihoods recovery, skills development and business development in the midst of continuous eruption of Mt. Sinabung in Karo District, North Sumatra, Indonesia, since 2010. 

The eruption of Mt. Sinabung has changed the lives of people of Karo. They are no longer able to rely on the agricultural sector that has been passed to generations over the years. Volcanic ashes and dusts have ruined the quality of the harvests. As a result, they are forced to change their mind-set in order to look for other livelihood options and income alternatives. They have to start focusing on small businesses and services, utilizing local commodities with added values

These inspirational stories have been collected by the ILO’s Mt. Sinabung Recovery Support Programme.