Niël Terblanché
While Africa continues to face escalating climate-induced disasters, governments find themselves on the frontlines of continuously managing the aftermath of disasters, the situation calls for concrete steps that safeguard the future of the continent and its people.
Namibia’s Deputy Prime Minister, John Mutorwa, while launching the 9th Session of the Africa Regional Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction (AfRP-9) in Windhoek on Tuesday, said the event is aimed at addressing the continent’s growing need for disaster risk management strategies.
He said the conference provides a platform for the continent’s leaders and experts to evaluate progress made in disaster management, assess future challenges, and enhance cooperative frameworks to build resilience against natural disasters.
The event featured in-depth discussions on the continent’s progress towards implementing the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction, following the Nairobi Declaration of 2021.
The Nairobi Declaration urged African countries to adopt multi-hazard early warning systems and to prioritise early action to mitigate disaster risks.
“In line with these directions, Namibia has made significant strides in disaster risk management,” he said.
Mutorwa also informed the delegates of the country’s ongoing initiatives, including the establishment of an Emergency Operations Centre.
“This centre is expected to enhance Namibia’s response to disasters and will be integrated into the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Humanitarian and Emergency Operations Centre and aligns with regional efforts to strengthen disaster management systems across Africa,” he added.
He said that Namibia has also been proactive in conducting vulnerability assessments and analyses that inform national disaster response measures.
“These assessments have led to the implementation of vital infrastructure projects aimed at reducing disaster risks while enhancing resilience,” he added.
According to Mutorwa, the government’s dedication to preparedness is reflected in the development of Namibia’s National Risk Profile, which identifies key hazards the country is exposed to, further guiding disaster mitigation planning.
Mutorwa noted the challenges Africa faces due to the increasing frequency of extreme climate events.
These include tropical cyclones, floods, droughts, and wildfires, which have resulted in widespread economic losses and, tragically, the loss of lives.
“Namibia, like many other countries in the region, has not been spared from these challenges,” he said while referencing the severe drought that has impacted over 58 million people in the SADC region, leading to widespread food and water insecurity.
Namibia declared a State of National Disaster in May 2024 due to the significant decline in food production and water levels, severely affecting the livelihoods of its citizens.
According to Mutorwa, the government has since implemented a drought relief programme that aims to provide food assistance to vulnerable households, support livestock farmers, and deliver water to drought-stricken areas.
Mutorwa called for peer learning and innovation, stressing the need for technology-driven solutions to enhance disaster management efforts across the continent.
He lauded Namibia’s digitisation of disaster relief efforts through the introduction of voucher cards, which beneficiaries redeem at local businesses, a move that boosts small enterprises while delivering essential aid.
He said the conference aims to produce actionable outcomes, including the “Windhoek Declaration,” which will serve as a roadmap for building a resilient Africa.
According to Mutorwa, the declaration is expected to push forward the integration of risk reduction strategies into all sectors of development planning across the continent, thereby breaking the cycle of disasters.
