OPENING CEREMONY OF THE NATIONAL WORKSHOP ON EARLY WARNINGS FOR ALL (EW4ALL)

It is my honour and privilege to welcome you all to this significant national workshop on Early Warning Systems, organized under the theme "Early Warnings for All" (EW4All). As we gather here today for a two-day deliberation, let us acknowledge the vital importance of Early Warning Systems (EWS) as a proven, effective, and feasible measure for disaster risk reduction and climate adaptation. These systems not only save lives but also offer a tenfold return on investment.

Despite their proven benefits, significant gaps persist in early warning systems globally, particularly in translating early warnings into risk-informed early action. This workshop aims to address these gaps and ensure that every individual in our nation is protected by effective early warnings by 2027.
While government plays a crucial role in driving these initiatives, a "whole-of-society" approach involving civil society and the private sector is essential to strengthen and sustain early warning services. It is also imperative to acknowledge that disasters and climate change affect individuals differently based on their gender, age, and other factors. Thus, an intersectional approach is necessary to ensure that early warning services are inclusive, responsive, and equitable. By involving all sectors of society and adopting an intersectional perspective, we can enhance the effectiveness of early warning services in protecting vulnerable populations.

In Seychelles, we are committed to advancing our early warning systems. The UN system and its partners are keen to boost political momentum and collectively achieve the EW4All Action Plan by 2027. Our goal is to better manage and pre-empt hazardous events, thereby protecting and enhancing the wellbeing and resilience of vulnerable communities. Multi-hazard early warning systems, linked to early actions, are crucial in managing risks, enhancing adaptation, and building resilience.

This national workshop provides an invaluable opportunity for stakeholders to agree on a roadmap to expand and improve the coverage of Multi-Hazard Early Warning Systems (MHEWS), empowering individuals and communities, especially those most in need, to take proactive and informed actions.
Our discussions will provide initial inputs towards a long term, multi-stakeholder EW4All national roadmap for coordinated resources, technical assistance, and long-term support. We hope to agree on a national coordination mechanism to guide the scale-up of early warning systems and develop a comprehensive gap analysis identifying policy, technical, financial, and other gaps in Seychelles across the four pillars of EW4All.In conclusion, let us seize this opportunity to collaboratively build a resilient future for our nation. By strengthening our early warning systems, we can protect lives, safeguard communities, and ensure sustainable development.

I wish you all productive discussions and meaningful outcomes