Official celebration in observance of International Day of Disaster and Risk Reduction ended in Monrovia last Friday, October 18, 2024 under the national theme, “Empowering Liberian Youth for resilient future”.
Activities marking the day were organized by the National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA), with support from the government and international partners.
International Day on Disaster Risk Reduction was set aside by the United Nations to reflect on the suffering of mankind at the hands of both man made and natural disaster and to find a solution to the problem.
At the ceremony, attended by a cross-section of senior government officials, representatives of the United Nations humanitarian operation in Liberia, the civil society, students and a host of independent organizations, the head of the government-owned disaster management agency underscored the need for the youth to become a part of the solution.
Ansu Dulleh maintained that the youth have the responsibility to ensure that the country rises stronger and more resilient in the face of the challenges that lies ahead. He called for the training and equipping of Liberian youths to effectively respond to natural disaster and save the people from its danger.
This year’s celebration of the International Day on Disaster Risk Reduction coincided with massive relief operation by the National Disaster Management Agency to assist victims of flooding, which has left hundreds of people in Rivercess and Nimba counties desperately in need of humanitarian assistance.
Dulleh, who was quick to blame the tragedy on the impact of climate change, warned that Liberia is not immuned from the unpredictable extreme weather event that is sweeping across the globe.
He indicated that getting the youth involved at the forefront of climate action will help equip government and partners to face the challenges of climate change head-on.
The executive director then expressed appreciation to the United Nation, Japan, the United States of America and all donor countries for their support in building the capacity of his entity.
The head of National Disaster Management Agency came to the position with a wide range of experience in responding to disaster, be it man-made or natural. Besides being a distinguished lawyer and respected politician, Ansu Dulleh was at the forefront of relief activities during the 1990 uprising.
Employees of the agency describe Dulleh as a humble boss who has respect for his under men and the authorities of the land.