Between 2001 and 2008, the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (the International Federation), in partnership with the British Red Cross and supported by the UK Department of International Development (DFID), implemented a Disaster Reduction Programme with various National Societies in disaster-prone countries in East and Southern Africa and in South Asia. The aims of the programme were to enhance the capacities of the National Societies in disaster preparedness and risk reduction, to contribute to global learning and expertise and to use the experience gained to inform future programmes. This document presents the summary of the lessons learned and recommendations from this programme. Published in 2009.