The forum, convened at the Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara International Conference Centre successfully united prominent national and international stakeholders, including the Minister for Fisheries and Water Resources, the Deputy Permanent Secretary for Communication and Digital Economy, and representatives from The Gambia Red Cross Society, among others.
The event aims to engage in dialogue on the implementation of the EW 4Al Initiative, bolster early warning systems, and improve disaster preparedness and resilience in The Gambia.
During the ceremony, the Vice President of The Gambia and Chairperson of the National Disaster Governing Council, Hon. Muhammed B.S. Jallow, emphasised that the event represents a pivotal advancement in the country's commitment to strengthening climate resilience and reducing disaster risks.
The Gambia, like numerous other countries, he said, “is becoming increasingly susceptible to the adverse effects of climate change. Our communities are facing rising temperatures, unpredictable rainfall patterns, flooding, coastal erosion, and extended periods of drought, all of which pose significant threats to families and their livelihoods.”
"These pressing challenges necessitate immediate and resolute action to enhance our national early warning systems and disaster risk management strategies. The United Nations' Early Warning for All initiative aims to guarantee that by 2027, everyone, everywhere, will be safeguarded by an early warning system, as previously highlighted. This ambitious objective perfectly aligns with our national development agenda, climate adaptation policies, and disaster risk reduction efforts."
Mr. Sanna A. Dahaba - Executive Director, NDMA, said this initiative is designed to guarantee that all individuals in Gambia, particularly those in vulnerable regions, receive precise and timely early warning information to avert or mitigate disaster-related losses, including economic impacts on our national GDP.
In their joint endeavor to establish an effective Early Warning System, he added, NDMA aims to concentrate on several key aspects, including: Inclusivity, which Guarantees that Early Warning Information is accessible to everyone, particularly the most vulnerable and marginalised members of our communities; Preparedness through Anticipation: This approach empowers the Government and Gambian communities to foresee, prepare for, and effectively respond to disasters.
Technology and Innovation: We must embrace new technologies for collecting, analyzing, and sharing early warning information, ensuring it is available in multiple languages to enhance response efforts and facilitate swift recovery and Collaboration which aims to fostering strong partnerships between the government, private sector, and local communities is crucial to cultivating a resilient society.”
Mr. Karl Frederick Paul, the United Nations Resident Coordinator, stated: “The roadmap we create today will not only serve as a replacement but will also build upon and enhance ongoing efforts in the country. It will ensure a cohesive, people-centered approach that truly leaves no one behind.”
He emphasised the United Nations' steadfast commitment to supporting this essential initiative.
