Monrovia, Liberia – In response to escalating flood threats and impending disaster scenarios across, the National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA), has taken decisive action by activating the long-awaited National Disaster Response Force (NDRF).
This crucial step, mandated by the 2016 Act establishing the NDMA, marks a pivotal moment in Liberia’s disaster preparedness and response framework.
Under Chapter II, Section 2.5 of the Act, the NDMA is tasked with constituting the NDRF, comprising officers and members from military, police, coast guard, fire service, emergency medical services, and other relevant personnel.
The Force is specifically designed to provide specialized responses to hazardous situations and disasters, exercising command and control under the supervision of the NDMA.
Today, the Agency convened a stakeholders meeting to formally constitute the NDRF, recognizing the urgent need posed by the current flood crisis.
The Force’s primary responsibilities include assessing disaster threats, recommending mitigation strategies, developing comprehensive response policies and plans, and providing crucial direction before, during, and after disasters and associated risks.
Liberia’s Disaster Risk Reduction efforts are poised to gain significant momentum with the activation of the NDRF, ensuring a structured and proactive approach to safeguarding communities from natural and man-made disasters.
As the country faces ongoing challenges exacerbated by climate change and environmental vulnerabilities, the NDMA’s initiative aims to enhance resilience and readiness at both national and local levels.
In his address to stakeholders, Ansu Dulleh, Executive Director of NDMA underscored the critical role of the NDRF in safeguarding lives, protecting property, and minimizing the impact of disasters on Liberia’s socio-economic fabric.
He emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts among government agencies, international partners, and local communities to effectively manage and mitigate disaster risks.
The activation of the NDRF represents a significant milestone in Liberia’s commitment to disaster preparedness and response, aligning with global best practices in emergency management.
With the potential future challenges, the NDMA’s proactive stance sets a precedent for proactive governance and resilience-building initiatives across the region.
Stakeholders anticipate continued collaboration and support for the NDRF, ensuring its operational effectiveness and readiness to respond swiftly to emerging threats.
The NDMA’s leadership under Dulleh’s signals a renewed dedication to safeguarding Liberia’s population and infrastructure from the unpredictable nature of disasters, reinforcing the nation’s resilience in the face of adversity.
Liberia, especially Monrovia is facing immense impact of climate change and human activities with floods taking over communities and homes.
Located on the West of Africa, to be country in the past didn’t experience huge flooding situations in the past unlike what is being seen in since the inception of this year rainy season.
Social media posts indicate the urgent need for decision in curbing the situation as well as providing aid to affected communities and homes.
Although there has no death reported, the escalation of floods across Monrovia and other parts of Liberia is creating a broader view about damages of homes and properties in the country.
The complexities of disaster management and preparedness is crucial to the activation of the NDRF, marking a significant stride towards ensuring a safer and more secure future for all citizens.
The ongoing commitment to disaster risk reduction underscores Liberia’s proactive approach to addressing the multifaceted challenges posed by natural and man-made disasters.
