In response to the rising threat of floods and potential disasters across the country, the National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA) has taken a critical step by activating the long-awaited National Disaster Response Force (NDRF).
This action, mandated by the 2016 Act that established the NDMA, signifies a major advancement in Liberia’s disaster preparedness and response capabilities.
According to Chapter II, Section 2.5 of the Act, the NDMA is responsible for forming the NDRF, which includes personnel from the military, police, coast guard, fire services, emergency medical teams, and other relevant sectors.
The NDRF is specifically designed to provide expert responses to hazardous situations and disasters, operating under the command and control of the NDMA.
Today, the NDMA held a stakeholders meeting to officially establish the NDRF, acknowledging the urgent need posed by the current flood crisis.
The primary duties of the NDRF include evaluating disaster threats, recommending mitigation strategies, developing comprehensive response policies and plans, and providing essential guidance before, during, and after disasters.
The activation of the NDRF is set to significantly boost Liberia’s Disaster Risk Reduction efforts, offering a structured and proactive approach to protecting communities from both natural and human-made disasters.
As Liberia faces ongoing challenges exacerbated by climate change and environmental vulnerabilities, the NDMA’s initiative aims to enhance national and local resilience and readiness.
In his address to stakeholders, NDMA Executive Director Ansu Dulleh highlighted the vital role of the NDRF in safeguarding lives, protecting property, and reducing the impact of disasters on Liberia’s socio-economic fabric.
He stressed the importance of collaboration among government agencies, international partners, and local communities to effectively manage and mitigate disaster risks.
The activation of the NDRF is a significant milestone in Liberia’s commitment to disaster preparedness, aligning with global best practices in emergency management.
With future challenges on the horizon, the NDMA’s proactive approach sets a new standard for governance and resilience-building initiatives across the region.
Stakeholders anticipate continued collaboration and support for the NDRF to ensure its operational effectiveness and readiness to respond swiftly to emerging threats.
Under Dulleh’s leadership, the NDMA is showing a renewed dedication to protecting Liberia’s population and infrastructure from the unpredictable nature of disasters, reinforcing the nation’s resilience in the face of adversity.
Liberia, particularly Monrovia, is currently experiencing severe impacts from climate change and human activities, with floods inundating communities and homes.
Historically, Liberia, located on the West Coast of Africa, has not faced severe flooding as it has this rainy season, highlighting the urgent need for decisive action to address the situation and provide aid to affected communities.
Although no deaths have been reported, the widespread flooding in Monrovia and other parts of Liberia is causing significant damage to homes and properties.
The complexity of disaster management underscores the importance of activating the NDRF, marking a crucial step toward ensuring a safer and more secure future for all citizens.
Liberia’s ongoing commitment to disaster risk reduction reflects a proactive approach to tackling the multifaceted challenges posed by both natural and human-made disasters.
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