#Japan #Kumamoto #GDX #Disaster Support #Kumamoto Earthquake

Establishment of the Support Matching Window by GDX

In the wake of the Kumamoto earthquake of 2026, the General Incorporated Association for Municipal DX Promotion (GDX), based in Minato, Tokyo, is pleased to announce the launch of a temporary support matching window named 'Kumamoto Earthquake Support Matching Window.' This initiative aims to connect affected municipalities with private companies capable of providing support services, products, or personnel.

Introduction

We extend our deepest condolences to those who lost their lives in the Kumamoto earthquake and offer our sincere sympathies to all those who were affected. Our respect goes out to everyone working tirelessly in aid of the victims and disaster areas. We wish for a swift recovery for the affected regions.

Background of the Initiative

On July 28, 2026, a significant earthquake measuring 7.1 in magnitude struck near Kumamoto City, primarily affecting the cities of Ueki and Hikawa, which recorded a maximum intensity of 7. In response, the Kumamoto Prefecture promptly enacted disaster relief laws for 21 municipalities consisting of 10 cities, 10 towns, and 1 village.

In the hardship following the earthquake, essential services like water and electricity were severely disrupted, leading to complex challenges such as managing evacuation centers under extreme heat, processing disaster relief certificates, and handling debris. Municipal staff, many of whom are also affected, are simultaneously managing their regular duties along with extensive disaster response tasks.

Meanwhile, many private companies expressed their desire to help but felt disconnected from the needs of the municipalities. They raised concerns about understanding which municipalities needed what type of support and feared that direct contact might burden the local officials.

Since its establishment in May 2023, GDX has actively worked to bridge the gap between municipal staff and private companies with the mission of spreading digital transformation (DX) throughout communities. By utilizing our pre-existing networks, we are eager to facilitate these connections through this newly established window.

We recommend all affected municipalities initially engage with the official support mechanisms offered by the national government and Kumamoto Prefecture, as our approach is intended to supplement these existing services.

Call for Support from Companies

We invite businesses to offer any services, products, supplies, or personnel support they are able to provide to the affected municipalities. Companies are encouraged to participate, regardless of whether they are members of GDX. All forms of assistance are welcome, not just those related to digital transformation—emergency supplies, power sources, vehicles, and manpower that can directly assist are equally appreciated.

Targeted Areas of Support

We have identified several critical areas where support is needed:

• - Evacuation Centre Operations: Supplies like Wi-Fi, power sources, cooling equipment, bedding, sanitation facilities, and registration for evacuees.
• - Resident Communication: Responsibilities could include handling calls, AI phone responses, multilingual support, and disseminating disaster information.
• - Victim Support Services: This includes processing disaster relief certificates, online application systems, and efficiency improvements in damage assessment.
• - Reducing Staff Burden: Aiding with the reception of support staff and helping with information sharing within the office.
• - Situational Awareness: Utilizing drones or satellite imagery for damage assessments and inspections of roads and infrastructure.
• - Securing Financial Resources: Supporting disaster relief through hometown tax donations, coordinating proxy donations, and crowdfunding efforts.
• - Recovery and Reconstruction: Managing disaster debris, ensuring housing, and rebuilding livelihoods.

(This list serves as an example; we welcome suggestions regarding any supportive measures that might assist the affected municipalities.)

Application Process

We kindly ask those wanting to offer assistance to provide the following details:

• - The scope of support, availability duration, and conditions.
• - Avoid direct contact with affected municipalities or unannounced visits.
• - If results lead to a paid arrangement, providing clear conditions beforehand is essential.
• - We encourage potential providers to ensure their method of delivery does not overburden local systems.

Should local authorities wish for ongoing assistance post-support, GDX will facilitate that transition.

Consultation for Municipalities

Authorities experiencing specific shortages or challenges are encouraged to communicate through our inquiry form. GDX will reach out to our member and partner companies to identify potential support options.

How to Apply for Support

For businesses offering assistance, please send us the details of your offerings, including possible durations, quantities, conditions, and your contact information.

For municipalities seeking consultation, please contact us via our dedicated inquiry form for local governments.

About the General Incorporated Association GDX

Established in 2023, our association supports municipal DX initiatives in collaboration with private sector entities. We act as a hub connecting municipalities and companies for needs assessment, matching, and information dissemination while producing our newsletter and conducting nationwide seminars and surveys.

For Inquiries

General Incorporated Association GDX
Tel: 03-6683-0106
E-mail: [email protected]
URL: https://gdx.or.jp/