Honduras municipalities urged to approve ordinances against drought and dengue

The Association of Municipalities of Honduras (AMHON) has issued an urgent appeal to all 298 municipalities across the country, calling for the prompt approval of local ordinances to combat the escalating threats of drought and dengue fever. This initiative is a direct response to the recent activation of Executive Decree PCM 016-2026.

Published on August 19th in the Official Gazette La Gaceta, the decree established an Inter-Institutional Technical Committee for Integrated Drought Management. This committee is tasked with coordinating national efforts to address the severe drought crisis and its widespread impacts on the Honduran population. AMHON's request emphasizes the need for municipal corporations to discuss and pass ordinances that include specific prevention and response measures for both drought and dengue.

Furthermore, the association has urged local authorities to consider regulations for well drilling within municipal areas. These local measures, which will be binding, must be tailored to the specific territorial, cultural, environmental, administrative, and financial conditions of each municipality. The overarching goal is to reduce the risks associated with the identified threats, ensuring water access and preventing the spread of diseases.

AMHON stressed that municipalities will continue to collaborate with the government and international cooperation agencies to implement actions aligned with various alert levels. The association also called on the public to stay informed and adhere to the directives issued by municipal authorities. Civil and police authorities are expected to support the enforcement of these measures. Mayors have reaffirmed their commitment to efficient resource management and prioritizing community well-being. AMHON concluded by highlighting that effective coordination among the government, municipalities, institutions, and citizens is crucial for successfully confronting the drought and preventing diseases like dengue.