UNDRR collaborates with local agencies to stage workshop on multi-hazard early-warning system
Through a United Nations-backed initiative, a Multi-Hazard Early
Warning System has been launched in Antigua and Barbuda.
As a result of this collaborative effort between the National Office of
Disaster Services (NODS), the MET Office, and the United Nations
Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR), a crucial two-day
workshop was recently held at the St James’s Club.
This gathering focused on the official launch of the Early Warnings
for All (EW4ALL) initiative, driven by the UN and championed by
local agencies dedicated to disaster-risk reduction.
Sherrod James, director of NODS, expressed his enthusiasm for the
initiative, while emphasizing its timeliness – given the anticipated
surge in severe weather events attributed to climate change.
James spoke of the importance of “building back better” in the face
of evolving threats and the need for a more robust system to
disseminate timely information to vulnerable populations.
UNDRR Programme Manager Dr. Jair Torres, who is responsible for
implementing the initiative across several CARICOM countries,
expressed his satisfaction with the workshop.
He highlighted the varied participation of local ministries and
agencies and shared his excitement about the forthcoming efforts
over the next few months.
Reports say there was active involvement from the representatives
of various agencies, including the Development Control Authority,
the Department of the Environment, the Ministry of Agriculture’s
Veterinary Division, and the Immigration Department, among others
during the workshop.
Mali Barnes, the national technical consultant behind this initiative,
says this inaugural workshop marks the beginning of a
comprehensive series of activities that are aimed at fortifying
Antigua and Barbuda’s Multi-Hazard Early Warning Systems.
“The initiative aims to enhance the nation’s resilience in the face of a
spectrum of hazards, laying the groundwork for a more proactive
and effective response to potential threats,” according to a release.
