DODOMA: THE United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has underscored the need to prioritise the establishment and strengthening of multi-sectoral Disaster Risk Reduction in joint measures to remain prepared in mitigating and managing risks.
The call was made in the country’s capital by UNICEF Deputy Representative Tanzania, Patrick Codjia during a two-day partners training on Disaster Risk Reduction.
Coordinated by UNICEF in collaboration with the Prime Minister’s Office, the training was part of the commemoration of the week of the International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) which kicked off on Monday. Its climax will be October 13, 2024.
The DRR training results from the commitment made between the Deputy Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office- Policy, Parliamentary Affairs and Coordination, Ummy Nderiananga and the UNICEF Representative in June 2024.
“This training on DRR comes at a critical time, as the effects of climate change continue to accelerate and we see an increasing frequency and intensity of natural disasters-both globally and here in Tanzania,’’ said Mr Codjia.
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According to the UNICEF’s Deputy Representative, the increase in frequency and severity of such events not only cause immediate harm to human lives and livelihoods but also damages and destructs housing, critical health, education, transport and other infrastructure.
The two-day DRR training in Dodoma sought to intensify knowledge amongst officials from key ministries and agencies so that they remain prepared to mitigate and manage risks.
The training according to the Deputy Minister underscores the government’s commitment to investing in disaster risk reduction across Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), by adopting a system-strengthening approach.
Furthermore, Mr Codjia said that UNICEF aimed at empowering communities to understand risks, anticipate vulnerabilities, and enhance their capacities for early action.
“This in turn, will support more effective disaster prevention and mitigation efforts,’’ he added.
When officiating at the official opening of the training, Ms Nderiananga reaffirmed the government’s commitment in partnering with UNICEF and all stakeholders in mitigation efforts.