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The Deputy Director General of Sierra Leone’s National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA), Sulaiman B. Sowa, has taken part in a high-level meeting of the Africa Working Group on Disaster Risk Reduction (AWGDRR) held from March 26 to 27, 2026, in Burundi.
The meeting, convened by the African Union Commission with the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction serving as Secretariat, brought together representatives from across the continent to advance disaster risk reduction strategies and strengthen regional collaboration.
Held under the theme “Accelerating action on the Windhoek Declaration and the Africa Common Position to the Global Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction 2025 commitments,” the summit focused on key priorities including investment in multi-hazard early warning systems, strengthening governance frameworks, and ensuring sustainable financing for resilience-building initiatives.
Discussions were aligned with the implementation of the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015–2030 and Africa’s Programme of Action, both of which guide efforts to reduce vulnerability to disasters and enhance preparedness across member states.
During the meeting, Sowa underscored the importance of scaling up investments in early warning systems and promoting risk-informed governance.
He also emphasized the need for inclusive, community-led approaches to disaster management, noting the increasing frequency and intensity of disasters across the African continent.
The forum further reflected on the relevance of the Windhoek Declaration, particularly its emphasis on the role of a free and independent media in fostering transparency, accountability, and effective communication key components in disaster risk management.
Sowa’s participation highlighted Sierra Leone’s continued engagement in continental initiatives aimed at addressing disaster risks. It also provided an opportunity for the country to strengthen partnerships and explore funding avenues for climate adaptation and disaster preparedness.
The AWGDRR remains a central platform for coordinating disaster risk reduction efforts in Africa, offering technical guidance and facilitating access to international support mechanisms for member states.
