Table 2 Ten high-impact agricultural interventions after a disaster, their use(s) and cost [14]

Emergency needs (immediate)

 Rolls of agricultural-grade plastic

Inexpensive shelter for humans, cattle and seeds, for later re-purposing to construct a greenhouse or use as groundcover to suppress weeds, conserve water and soil

$15.00

 Low-oxygen grain storage bag

To protect seeds from monsoon rains and prevent losses due to moulds and insects

$1.00

 Waterproof gardening gloves

To clear debris and later re-purpose for farm work to reduce female hardship

$0.50

 Foldable military shovel

To clear debris and can be re-purposed for agricultural needs

$3.00

 First-aid kit

Frontline care, and to reduce infections which would otherwise cause declines in farm labour

$2.00

Medium-term needs (1–4 months)

 Seed package of rapid maturing grains/starch crops

To allow farmers to produce calories rapidly and prevent consumption of sowing seeds

$1.75

 Seed package of rapid maturing beans (legumes)

To allow farmers to produce protein rapidly and prevent consumption of sowing seeds

$1.50

 Seed package of rapid maturing vegetables

To allow farmers to produce vitamins and minerals (micronutrients) rapidly, especially required for pregnant women and children

$1.50

 Bag of nitrogen fertilizer (5 kg)

An inexpensive method to promote an immediate increase in food production within 3 months

$2.00

 Low-cost tool package

To mitigate losses in farm labour caused by death/injury to humans and livestock

$10.00

 Total kit cost for a household of 5 people

The entire kit is not needed; even a single one of the above products will be beneficial

$40.00