Vodafone Foundation Expands Emergency Response Programme

London 27^th July 2025: This summer, Vodafone Foundation is furthering its mission of connecting for good, and a focus on providing connectivity in times of crisis and emergency, by pre-deploying Instant Network Emergency Response (INER) kit to a further 7 international locations.

These 7 new local hubs will consist of the vital technology Vodafone Foundation’s INER teams use to help re-establish connectivity within the first 72 hours of a disaster to support role of emergency service and any individuals in the effected zones.

Vodafone Foundation’s Instant Network (INER) Emergency Response kit includes secure WiFi units, charging stations and solar power generators. By expanding the geographical presence of INER kit, Vodafone Foundation will be helping to improve localised preparedness for crisis and disasters and enabling a faster emergency response.

The establishment of the 7 new local hubs in Albania, Czechia, Democratic Republic of Congo, Egypt, Ireland, Mozambique, & Portugal builds on the 4 existing regional INER hubs already in place in the UK, Netherlands, Germany and Greece.

This development is a major step forward that will help the Vodafone Foundation’s INER programme to:

Respond to More Emergencies: Local bases can address smaller events needing immediate attention.

Increase Efficiency: Local hubs ensure quicker, more cost-effective responses, reducing delays caused by geographical distances.

Build Local Capacity: Local responders, with their knowledge and networks, enhance effectiveness and acceptance.

Reduce Environmental Impact: Local teams reduce the carbon footprint and can access hard-to-reach areas better than international teams.

Justin Waller, head of Vodafone Foundation’s INER programme, explained the importance of this latest expansion stating that “At present, we operate 4 main hubs which serve as the central bases for our volunteers and equipment. These hubs have been instrumental in facilitating rapid deployment during international emergencies. However, we recognise the necessity of establishing a more localised approach to respond to the increasing frequency and diversity of emergencies effectively. These new hubs will enable us to reach more of those we seek to support, more quickly.

He continues “Our experience in Valencia last year showed us the benefits of local knowledge and networks, in more effectively managing our emergency response. That’s why, looking ahead, we know that these new hubs will help us capitalise on the same, in turn making a huge difference to the number of individuals and communities we are able to support at pace.”

Managing Director of Vodafone Foundation Lisa Felton added “This initiative reflects our commitment to supporting local partners on the ground. Providing our excellent teams of Vodafone employee volunteers in countries like Egypt with the kit they need to help make a very real difference.”

She continues “The establishment of these 7 new local hubs further underscores our dedication to enabling better emergency preparedness and response. By leveraging local resources and expertise, we can ensure timely, effective, and sustainable interventions that meet the needs of affected communities, both today and in the future.”

As part of the expansion, Vodafone Foundation will provide additional Hostile Environment (HEAT) training for 2 volunteers per hub and a 3-day in-country training program for all volunteers, further adding to the pool of skilled Vodafone employee volunteers signed up to support the charity’s INER missions across the globe.

The new local hubs will be jointly funded by Vodafone Foundation and local Vodafone operating companies.