GOVERNMENT has moved to strengthen disaster preparedness and response through the validation of the National Emergency Telecommunication Plan (NETP) and the Early Warning Systems for All (EWS4All) stakeholder roadmap and matrix.
The initiative seeks to ensure reliable telecommunications services during emergencies and aligns Zimbabwe’s disaster response framework with national priorities and Southern African Development Community (Sadc) regional goals.
Speaking at the ITU–Sadc Emergency Telecommunications and Early Warning Systems for All National Capacity Development Workshop in Harare recently, Information Communication Technology, Postal and Courier Services secretary Beaulah Chirume said collaboration among stakeholders was key to building a resilient and inclusive telecommunications system.
“The theme of this workshop, Emergency Telecommunications and Early Warning Systems for All, encapsulates our shared vision of an inclusive, resilient and responsive telecommunications framework,” she said.
“This initiative aligns perfectly with our national priorities and the overarching goals of the Sadc region in fostering co-operation and collaboration in disaster risk management.”
Chirume said Zimbabwe was at a critical point in strengthening its capacity to respond to disasters, which were becoming more frequent and severe.
“The increasing frequency and intensity of disasters — whether natural or man-made — demand that we take decisive action,” she said.
“The consequences of such events can be devastating, affecting lives, livelihoods and national infrastructure. It is, therefore, imperative that we equip ourselves with effective tools and strategies to mitigate these risks.”
NETP was developed through collaboration among government institutions and partners to identify gaps and leverage existing frameworks to maximise impact.
Zimbabwe aims to establish a resilient and interoperable emergency telecommunications system that ensures citizens have access to reliable communication services during disasters.
The plan also includes strengthening early warning systems through automated weather stations that collect real-time data and generate accurate forecasts, which are then disseminated through various communication channels.
Authorities have also introduced a disaster preparedness App that provides users with information on disaster risks, safety tips and emergency contact numbers.
Satellite imagery will also be used to assess damage, identify hazard-prone areas and plan response strategies.
The initiative forms part of Zimbabwe’s broader disaster risk management strategy, which includes a US$13 million investment in early warning systems.
Through these measures, the country aims to shift from reactive disaster response to a data-driven, predictive and technology-enabled framework designed to reduce loss of life and property.
Government has also established a national disaster management committee, bringing together government agencies, non-governmental organisations and private sector players to coordinate disaster response efforts.
The EWS4All initiative is expected to enhance Zimbabwe’s disaster preparedness and response capabilities, ultimately saving lives and reducing the economic impact of disasters.-herald
