Malawi today joined the global community in observing the International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction (IDDRR), an annual event that reminds nations to strengthen preparedness and reduce losses caused by disasters.
In a statement, Commissioner for Disaster Management Affairs, Reverend Moses Chimphepo, emphasised the government’s commitment to protecting lives and livelihoods.
“DoDMA calls on development and humanitarian actors to scale up funding for disaster risk reduction, particularly in vulnerable communities, and to build their resilience to disasters,” said Rev. Chimphepo in the statement.
Speaking to MBC Digital, Spokesperson for the Department of Disaster Management Affairs (DoDMA), Chipiliro Khamula, said the day offers an opportunity to reflect on the impact of disasters and the need to strengthen the resilience of vulnerable communities.
“Today we join the rest of the world in marking the International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction. The day provides a moment to reflect on how far we have come in reducing risks. This year’s theme reminds us to move from reacting to disasters to investing in measures that prevent them and build resilience,” said Khamula.
He added that DoDMA is urging government ministries and agencies to include disaster risk reduction in their budgets and ensure that development plans consider potential risks.
Khamula also appealed to civil society and academic institutions to lead innovation, research, and advocacy efforts that can make communities safer.
Environmental activist Charles Mkoka, who is also Executive Director of the Coordination Union for the Rehabilitation of the Environment (CURE), noted that Malawi continues to face climate-related challenges. He said the day serves as a reminder that investing in resilience today secures the nation’s future.
This year’s commemorations are being held under the global theme: “Fund Resilience, Not Disasters.”
