Africa-Press – Zimbabwe. THE Southern African Development Community (Sadc) is strengthening its disaster preparedness and response capacity with the completion of the Emergency Response Team training programme in Nyanga.
The training, attended by representatives from across the region, sought to equip participants with critical skills in disaster management, co-ordination and humanitarian response.
Local Government and Public Works deputy minister Benjamin Kabikira described the programme as a milestone in regional co-operation.
“The skills, knowledge and teamwork you have demonstrated over these sessions reflect the dedication that is essential in safeguarding lives and minimising risks when disaster strikes,” he said.
The training provided participants with practical knowledge in key areas, including emergency response coordination, information management, assessments and linkages between national and international response systems.
According to Kabikira, these competencies are crucial in enabling responders to act decisively in real-life emergencies where every second counts.
He also emphasised the importance of regional solidarity in disaster management.
UN resident and humanitarian co-ordinator Edward Kallon underscored the global significance of the initiative.
He said humanitarian needs were increasing due to climate, declining international aid and shifting global politics.
“Southern Africa is prone to climate-induced emergencies including droughts, cyclones, floods and episodic disease outbreaks,” Kallon said.
“We must, therefore, enhance our collective capabilities to redefine life-saving assistance and ensure that humanitarian aid remains effective and accountable.”
The course was made possible through partnerships, with support from the Sadc Secretariat, United Nations agencies, the European Union, the International Federation of the Red Cross and the government of Zimbabwe, which co-financed and hosted the programme.
Kabikira hailed the collaboration as a reflection of the region’s commitment to resilience and sustainable development.
“Together, the region is stronger, safer and better prepared with such a great team like you,” he added.
Sadc faces a wide range of natural hazards either single or hybrid and human-induced risks, such as drought, floods, landslides, human and animal disease, pests, earthquakes and urban and wildfires.
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