The National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA) and its partners commemorated the International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction (IDDRR) under the theme: “Empowering the Next Generation for a Resilient Future.” The event, held at New Brookfields Hotel, highlighted the importance of prioritising disaster preparedness and risk reduction, particularly among the youths, who are seen as crucial in shaping a resilient future.
IDDRR, observed globally on October 13, was established by the United Nations to promote a culture of disaster risk awareness and reduction. This year’s focus on youth empowerment underscores the growing recognition of young people’s pivotal role in building resilient communities that can better withstand the increasing frequency and intensity of natural disasters.
In his opening remarks, NDMA’s Deputy Director General, John Vandy Rogers, emphasised the need to involve the younger generation in disaster risk management. He noted that young people are not only the future but are also instrumental in current efforts to mitigate disaster risks. “We must ensure that our youths are equipped with the knowledge, skills, and tools to anticipate, prepare for, and respond to disasters,” he remarked.
NDMA’s Director General, Lt. Gen. (Rtd.) Brima Sesay reiterated this message, stating, “As we mark the International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction, we are reminded of our shared responsibility to build a safer, more resilient future.” He added that the NDMA, established by an Act of Parliament and officially launched on November 19, 2020, by His Excellency President Dr Julius Maada Bio, has made significant strides in disaster management across Sierra Leone, shifting the focus from reactive response to proactive risk reduction.
Dr. Kandeh Kolleh Yumkella, Chairman of the Presidential Initiative on Climate Change, Renewable Energy, and Food Security, spoke on the importance of integrating disaster risk reduction into school curriculums and community programs to ensure preparedness becomes second nature. He emphasised the need to build resilience at the grassroots level, where the impact of disasters is often most severe. “Resilience is not just about bouncing back from disasters; it’s about building systems that can absorb shocks and recover more quickly,” he stated.
The keynote speaker, Dr A.A. Sannoh, Deputy National Security Coordinator at the Office of National Security, expressed gratitude to the NDMA for prioritising the observance of IDDRR. He reflected on the devastating disasters Sierra Leone has faced, which have severely impacted lives, property, and the government’s development agenda. “In today’s rapidly changing world, empowering the next generation is essential to building a sustainable and resilient future,” Dr. Sannoh remarked.
Mrs. Emily Grogra, Deputy Minister 1 of Basic and Senior Secondary Schools, stressed the importance of instilling environmental stewardship from an early age. She noted that education on sustainability, conservation, and the impact of human activities on the environment empowers young people to make informed decisions and advocate for policies that protect natural resources.
Representatives from primary and secondary schools, community volunteers, and youth-led organisations also shared insights on how education and capacity-building initiatives can contribute to fostering a more resilient Sierra Leone.
