Kigali, 28-29 August 2024 – The African Disaster Mitigation Research Center (ADMiR) took part in the pivotal workshop organized by the African Union Commission (AUC) to establish the Network of African Centres of Excellence for Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR). Representing ADMiR was Prof. Gad El-Qady, Senior Advisor, who contributed insights on research, policy alignment, and capacity building to support regional disaster resilience efforts.

Workshop Background

Africa faces an alarming rise in natural disasters, with escalating loss of human lives, economic damages, and environmental impacts. Despite ongoing efforts at national, regional, and continental levels, the frequency and intensity of these disasters continue to grow. In response, the AUC established a DRR Unit within the Directorate of Sustainable Environment and Blue Economy (SEBE) to coordinate disaster prevention and management efforts with Regional Economic Communities (RECs) and Member States.

The AUC also launched initiatives such as the Africa Youth Advisory Board on DRR and the African Science and Technology Advisory Group on DRR to involve youth and scientists in decision-making and disaster awareness. Additionally, the Africa Multi-Hazards Early Warning and Early Action System was implemented to strengthen preparedness and enable anticipatory actions.

However, reports show a persistent increase in disasters and economic losses, indicating the need for enhanced collaboration and capacity building. In line with the Sendai Framework for DRR (2015-2030) and the Programme of Action (PoA) for Africa, the Specialized Technical Committee on Agriculture, Rural Development, Water, and Environmental Issues instructed the AUC to develop a network of Centres of Excellence to address the continent's unique DRR challenges.

Workshop Objectives and Key Outcomes

The workshop in Kigali aimed to initiate the Network of African Centres of Excellence for DRR, bringing together academia, RECs, Member States, and stakeholders. The network seeks to build the capacities of African nations in disaster prevention and management, ensuring African-led solutions to African challenges. Key objectives included:

1. Exchanging insights with African universities and institutions on integrating DRR into training programs.
2. Identifying the needs of RECs and AU Member States to align academic efforts with ground realities.
3. Empowering youth, women, and marginalized groups by addressing their specific needs in DRR strategies.
4. Recommending actions to ensure the operational effectiveness of the network.

By the end of the workshop, participants developed recommendations for the operationalization of the network and launched the core group of Africa Centres of Excellence for DRR.

ADMiR’s Role and Contribution

As a leading research center in disaster mitigation, ADMiR is committed to supporting the network’s mission to strengthen DRR capacities across Africa. Prof. Gad El-Qady emphasized ADMiR’s expertise in multi-hazard monitoring, early warning systems, and fostering innovation through collaboration with academic institutions and regional stakeholders.

This initiative reflects ADMiR’s dedication to building resilient societies by advancing science-based solutions and reinforcing partnerships aligned with the African Union’s vision of sustainable development and resilience.

The workshop concluded with a shared commitment from all participants to collaborate closely with the AUC, RECs, and Member States to ensure that the Network of Centres of Excellence for DRR delivers meaningful impact in the coming years.