The Darién Gap, a dense and remote stretch of jungle between Colombia and Panama, has become one of the world’s most challenging humanitarian environments. Thousands of refugees and migrants cross the region every year, often arriving in isolated communities in urgent need of food, healthcare, and protection services. The lack of reliable infrastructure—particularly electricity and communications—severely constrains humanitarian operations and limits access to essential services.
To address this critical gap, the Refugee Emergency Telecommunications Sector (RETS), led by UNHCR, initiated a connectivity project aimed at enabling reliable internet access in key locations along the migration route, improving coordination and service delivery for humanitarian actors and local communities.
emergency.lu Deployment and Technical Solution
Following a technical assessment mission in February 2023, Luxembourg’s emergency.lu deployed and delivered two VSAT satellite connectivity kits to the remote communities of Bajo Chiquito and Canaan Membrillo. These sites were strategically selected due to their role as first reception points for people crossing the jungle.
Given the absence of stable electricity infrastructure, the connectivity systems were complemented by autonomous solar power solutions.
These systems were supplied locally by Fitzroy Solar and ensured fully independent energy supply, enabling continuous operation in off‑grid conditions.
Multi‑Partner Coordination and Community-Based Approach
The deployment was carried out in close coordination with multiple partners, including:
- UNHCR RETS, overseeing the telecommunications response
- NetHope and Cisco Crisis Response, providing network equipment and connectivity solutions
- Panamanian authorities and local Indigenous leaders, supporting implementation and site selection
Connectivity hubs were installed in local schools, transforming them into humanitarian service points and community access centres. This dual‑use approach enabled both operational coordination and direct support to affected populations.
To ensure sustainability, training was provided to local community members and humanitarian actors for basic maintenance and system management, promoting local ownership and long‑term operability.
Complex Logistics in a Remote Jungle Environment
The challenging geography of the Darién Gap required highly adapted logistics. With no road access to most locations, the deployment was planned with helicopter transport for personnel and equipment, highlighting the complexity and cost of operating in such an isolated environment.
Despite these constraints, the systems were successfully installed and integrated into the broader RETS network, expanding connectivity coverage across key transit points.
Enabling Humanitarian Coordination and Access
The installation of reliable internet connectivity has had a direct operational and humanitarian impact. It has enabled:
- Improved coordination among humanitarian agencies
- Access to protection services, medical referrals, and information for migrants
- Communication with families and support networks
- Enhanced situational awareness and data collection
By bridging the connectivity gap in one of the world’s most inaccessible regions, the project strengthened both humanitarian response capacity and community resilience.
