By Alieu Amara Suwu
The National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA) has on October 15, 2024, commemorated International Disaster Risk Reduction Day.
The commemoration, which was held at the New Brookfield Hotel in Freetown, has been celebrated since 1989, prompted by the United Nations General Assembly to promote risk awareness and disaster reduction on a global scale. The element of disaster risk reduction is aimed at decreasing the emergence of newer risks, diminishing existing disaster risks, and managing residual risk—ultimately aiming to strengthen resilience for all and subsequently achieving sustainable development.
This year’s is anchored on empowering the next generation for a resilient future.
Giving the keynote address, Dr. Ahmed Sannoh, the substantive Deputy National Security Coordinator for the Office of National Security, acknowledged the privilege and honour given to him to address all on that significant occasion that marked the International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction, a day he purposely said is to reaffirm their commitment to strengthening resilience and safeguarding their nation, saying that they must also focus on the pressing need to equip the next generation with the tools for disaster resilience, which is the theme of this year’s commemoration.
As assertive as he was, he said natural and human-induced disasters have consistently threatened the lives, livelihoods, and progress of their communities. And said, like many nations around the world, Sierra Leone has faced the destruction unleashed by floods, landslides, pandemics, and other catastrophic events.
He, however, said that, in the midst of these challenges, the resilience and strength of their people have always prevailed, noting that, time and again, they have demonstrated the power of unity, preparedness, and collective action in overcoming adversity.
He specifically pointed out that the crucial question they now face is: how can they ensure that this strength is passed down to future generations?
Dr. Sannoh, saying that day’s memorial theme, “Empowering the Next Generation for Disaster Resilience,” was timely and crucial, addressed everyone present that the youth are the foundation of Sierra Leone’s future, representing their hope, innovation, and emerging leadership.
“To foster a more resilient nation, it is essential that we equip them with the knowledge, skills, and opportunities to spearhead the fight against disaster risks. Empowering them goes beyond education; it requires creating platforms for them to take action, influence policy, and play an active role in disaster risk reduction efforts,” he advised.
Unarguably, he said the empowerment begins with education—integrating disaster risk reduction into their national curriculum at all levels, from primary schools to universities, for when young minds understand the risks posed by climate change, environmental degradation, and human vulnerabilities, they are better prepared to respond and adapt.
Rounding up, he said as they observe the day, from the perspective of national security, they recognize that disaster risk management is a shared responsibility that extends beyond government alone. He continued that it calls for the collective involvement of citizens, communities, and institutions, working together towards a common goal.
Lt. Gen. (Rtd) Brima Sasay, Director General of NDA, said the International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction started in 1989 after a call by the United Nations General Assembly for a day to promote a global culture of risk awareness and disaster reduction.
Held every 13 October, he said the day celebrates how people and communities worldwide are reducing their exposure to disaster and raising awareness about the importance of paying attention to the risks they face.
He continued that the International Day is an opportunity to acknowledge global progress in preventing and reducing disaster risks and losses.
He confirmed that disasters, many of which are exacerbated by climate change, have a negative impact on investment in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the desired outcomes. He said it is also at the local level that capacities need to be strengthened urgently.
He also noted that the theme for this year aligns with the agenda of the Government of Sierra Leone’s Human Capital Development, noting that the objective is to promote a global culture of disaster risk reduction, including disaster prevention, mitigation, and preparedness.
Emily Gorgra, Deputy Minister of Basic and Senior Secondary Education, called for the inclusion of disaster programs in school curriculum and encouraged teachers to make that happen and to be resilient.
She raised concern over schools that are prone to disasters and said the Ministry is putting strategies in place but cautioned that disasters should be reported and early warnings should be adhered to.
Seraphine Wakana, UN Resident Coordinator for Sierra Leone, asked everyone what to do to mitigate disaster in homes and communities.
Sahr Songbor, a visually impaired pupil from Prince of Wales, said as they came together on that, they were there not just as pupils but as future leaders who have a unique role to shape the trajectory of the country. He called on parties concerned to help them push their action in fighting against disasters. He thanked parents and teachers for the love and care.
