By Rolinda J. Kantan

MONROVIA, July 23 (LINA) – The National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA) in collaboration with partners have launched a two-day 'Early Warning for All Initiative (EW4ALL)' dialogue to address the effects of Climate Change in Liberia and the West African region.

Speaking recently at the EW4ALL dialogue held at a local hotel in Monrovia, a proxy of the UN Resident Coordinator, Madam Christine Umutoni emphasized the crucial role of the EW4ALL initiative aligning with global people-centered impact-based Early Warning Systems in shaping Liberia's vulnerability to natural hazards.

She highlighted the significance of political will, leadership, governance, and coordination as central elements for effective disaster risk management in the long term.

Madam Christine Umutoni added that the holistic approach underscores the necessity for a unified effort to enhance Liberia's resilience and preparedness against potential disasters.

 Furthermore, she indicated that disaster risk management is deemed essential for Liberia's development, particularly given its susceptibility to natural hazards, adding that Liberia's commitment to fortifying early warning systems through the Sendai Framework is commendable.

 She stressed that collaboration is needed as an essential tool for readiness in disaster prevention, especially with the 2027 deadline looming.

 “Time is of the essence, and concerted efforts are crucial for meeting the targets. The call to action underscores the importance of collaboration, not only to reduce human losses and mitigate damages but also to bolster community resilience to disasters,” she emphasized.

The event was organized by the NDMA with support from organizations including the United Nations Office on Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR), World Meteorological Organization (WMO), Swedish Government, and others.

The event sheds light on the growing frequency of extreme events in Liberia, including floods, severe storms, and famine.