Freetown, 14 October 2024 (SLENA)– The National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA) commemorated the International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction at the New Brookfields Hotel, Freetown. The event brought together key stakeholders, including government officials, development partners, and school pupils, under the theme "Empowering the Next Generation for a Resilient Future."
In his opening remarks, NDMA Chairman, Mr. Vandy Rogers, emphasized the agency's mandate to coordinate and manage disaster-related matters across Sierra Leone. He underscored the importance of building local capacity to effectively manage disasters, particularly at the community level. This approach is not just effective, it's necessary, in order to foster a proactive and resilient disaster management framework.
Dr. Kandeh Yokella, Chairman of the Special Initiative for Climate Change, Renewable Energy, and Food Security in Sierra Leone, stressed the urgent need for resilient infrastructure across the country. He pointed out that some areas, including Marbolo and Tomabo, where the Feed Salone program has initiated farming activities, have been severely affected by flooding. Dr. Yokella called for innovative financing solutions, including leveraging the country's green forests to generate resources for critical infrastructure such as roads, hospitals, schools, and markets.
Hon. Melrose Karmity, Minister of Social Welfare, expressed her gratitude to the United Nations Country Coordinator and other development partners for their continued support. She highlighted the theme of this year's event, noting its alignment with the government's plan to empower future generations. Minister Karmity also discussed the psychosocial and mental health support programs her ministry has designed to assist victims of disasters, stressing the importance of addressing the challenges Sierra Leone faces in disaster management.
Delivering the keynote address, Dr. Ahmad Sannoh, Deputy National Security Coordinator, reiterated the security sector's pivotal role in disaster management. He advocated for integrating disaster management skills into the school curriculum to equip young people with the knowledge to address climate change risks and environmental challenges. Dr. Sannoh further called for practical training in early warning systems, sustainable land management, and community education strategies, urging youth to take leadership roles in disaster prevention and response.
"The youth represent the future of Sierra Leone," Dr. Sannoh remarked. "Empowering them with the skills and knowledge for disaster prevention is crucial. They must be at the forefront of efforts to build resilient communities and serve as first responders in times of crisis."
In his concluding remarks, Dr. Sannoh emphasized the need to prioritize capacity building at the local level, engaging the media, schools, and communities to ensure that young people play a central role in disaster risk reduction efforts across the country.
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