Seychelles Makes Significant Strides in Disaster Risk Reduction at AfRP-9
The Seychelles recently participated in the 9th African Regional Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction (AfRP-9) in Namibia. This important event brought together nations, organizations, and stakeholders to share best practices and strengthen disaster resilience across Africa.
The Seychelles' delegation, led by Minister Charles Fonseka, played a key role in the discussions that took place over the course of four days. Minister Fonseka also served as a panel member for a plenary session on the topic of "Reducing Loss and Damage: Saving Lives and Protecting Investments," contributing valuable insights on reducing loss and damage, particularly within the context of Small Island Developing States (SIDS).
Minister Fonseka and other Seychelles representatives actively contributed to high-level meetings and discussions, shaping the direction of disaster risk reduction in Africa. The Seychelles also engaged with various organizations, including the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR), International Telecommunication Union (ITU), International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), and the Indian Ocean Commission (IOC), to further its commitment to disaster risk reduction. This included solidifying plans to join the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI).
Minister Fonseka also participated in the 8th High-Level Meeting on Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR), where the Windhoek Declaration was implemented. The Declaration calls on all members of society to take part in Disaster Risk Management (DRM) activities and urges countries to mainstream DRM into development programs across all sectors.
During the mission, Minister Fonseka engaged in a bilateral meeting with Mr. Kamal Kishore, the newly appointed United Nations Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Disaster Risk Reduction. The mission resulted in concrete plans for improving emergency communication networks, integrating disaster law into national policy, and enhancing communication strategies for disaster preparedness.
The Minister was accompanied by Mr. Robert Ernesta, Director General of the Disaster Risk Management Department (DRMD), Mrs. Mastura Shah-Faure, Executive Director in the MIA Secretariat, Mr. Romano Songor, Executive Director from the Ministry of Local Government & Community Affairs (MLGCA), and Miss Maria Evenson, Economist from the Ministry of Finance, National Planning and Trade (MFNPT).
Looking Ahead:
The Seychelles delegation's contributions to AfRP-9 will help inform future national and regional strategies for building resilience against natural disasters. We remain committed to protecting our communities and advancing disaster risk reduction initiatives.