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The National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA) has launched a new initiative aimed at empowering women and strengthening their leadership in disaster management.
The Gender and Social Inclusion Unit held the first meeting of its “Women in Disaster Management initiative” on March 31, 2026, at the NDMA headquarters. The meeting was attended by Director General John Vandy Rogers.
The initiative seeks to empower female staff, build their capacity, and ensure gender is considered in all areas of disaster management.
Speaking at the meeting, Director General Rogers said gender inclusion is not optional but essential.
“Sustainable resilience cannot be achieved without the full and active participation of women,” he said. “We are committed to creating space and opportunities for women to contribute meaningfully to disaster risk reduction and leadership.”
He added that the initiative aligns with international frameworks such as the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction and the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW).
Deputy Director General Sulaiman B. Sowa urged female staff to take full advantage of available opportunities to strengthen their skills and uphold professionalism.
The Director General and Deputy Director General were named the first “Allies” of the initiative in recognition of their support for gender-sensitive leadership.
Female staff members described the meeting as both educative and inspiring, with discussions focused on women’s rights, participation, and leadership in disaster management.
The NDMA said the initiative demonstrates its commitment to ensuring no one is left behind in the delivery of its mandate.
