New disaster response communication procedures crucial for addressing gaps
Makhambo: Each cluster will be able to respond to disasters efficiently
The new communication procedures in disaster response has been touted as critical in efficiently addressing existing gaps, according to the Malawi Communications Regulatory Authority (MACRA).
These procedures, set to be adopted soon, were highlighted at a recent two-day National Emergency Telecommunications Working Group (NETWG) Workshop in Blantyre.
MACRA believes that these procedures will play a critical role in ensuring the country is well-prepared to respond to emergencies and keep its citizens safe.
The NETWG workshop aimed to bring together stakeholders to discuss and refine these procedures, ultimately enhancing Malawi’s disaster response capabilities.
MACRA Director of Broadcasting, Zadziko Makhambo, emphasized the importance of clear roles and collaboration in disaster response.
According to Makhambo, each member from a specific cluster will be aware of their responsibilities which will help ensure a coordinated and effective response.
“We have been having so many gaps in the absence of these procedures. Once adopted, each cluster will be able to respond to disasters efficiently and proactively” Makhambo said.
On his part, Deputy Director for Disaster Response at the Department of Disaster Management Affairs (DoDMA), Fyawupi Mwafongo, stressed the crucial role of communication procedures in ensuring effective disaster response mechanisms.
Mwafongo emphasized that well-established communication procedures are essential for timely information sharing, enabling swift decision-making and response.
Meanwhile, Mwafongo said the disaster management authority are prepared should disasters strike anytime soon, and the communication procedures will enable them to effectively handle issues.
He said: “For this year we already put together the necessary resources which can be used in hard hit areas”
The Department of Disaster Management Affairs (DoDMA) reported that at least 1,800 households have been affected by Tropical Cyclone Chido in the country as of Wednesday, 18 December 2024
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