By Precious D. Freeman
The Executive Director of the National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA), Ansu Dulleh, delivered a compelling address, emphasizing the importance of early warning systems and collaborative efforts across Africa.
In his address at the “Declaration of the 8th High-Level Meeting on Disaster Risk Reduction, Dulleh expressed gratitude to the UN Secretary-General and the UN Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) for their support of the “Early Warning for All” initiatives in Liberia.
He noted that this inclusion signifies a vital commitment by the United Nations to assist vulnerable and low-income countries in enhancing resilience and safeguarding livelihoods.
“We are truly honored to be part of this global effort, ensuring that all communities have access to timely and accurate early warnings,” he stated.
Highlighting the challenges faced by the continent, Dulleh stressed the need for united actions in addressing escalating disaster risks and the impacts of climate change.
He called for innovative approaches to strengthen resilience and reduce vulnerabilities, urging alignment of national strategies with the Sendai Framework priorities.
“The urgency of this moment compels us to seize opportunities for knowledge sharing, technology transfer, and capacity building,” he added, emphasizing the necessity of transforming risk governance structures through enhanced coordination and participatory methods.
Dulleh urged member states to integrate disaster risk reduction into national development plans, empower local communities, and rethink traditional spending patterns.
He advocated for risk-informed budgeting processes to channel resources toward initiatives that reduce vulnerabilities and promote climate adaptation.
In conclusion, he reaffirmed Liberia’s commitment to collaborative endeavors and innovation across Africa, underscoring the need for solidarity in achieving a resilient, sustainable, and inclusive continent.
“By uniting toward disaster resilience and sustainable development, we can pave the way for a brighter future and create a legacy of shared progress and prosperity for all,” he declared.
The meeting gathered delegates from across the continent, reinforcing a collective commitment to disaster risk reduction and resilience-building initiatives, crucial in the face of growing environmental challenges.
