Ethiopia is taking steps to enhance its emergency response and disaster preparedness by relying on its own resources, rather than foreign aid, according to Shiferaw Teklemariam, Commissioner of the Ethiopian Disaster Risk Management Commission (DRMC). The country is establishing a system to improve national capacity in disaster prevention, preparedness, and response, Shiferaw told ENA.
The government has made progress in building self-reliance in disaster response and recovery efforts, with six regions, including Addis Ababa and Dire Dawa, already capable of providing humanitarian assistance independently. The country is also working to build the capacity of other regions to respond effectively to emergencies.
A safety net program is being implemented to support citizens in need, with a survey conducted twice a year to identify vulnerable populations. Humanitarian organizations are being encouraged to focus on sustainable development initiatives rather than solely providing emergency aid.
Shiferaw noted that the country has made significant progress in providing humanitarian assistance to conflict-affected regions, including Tigray, Amhara, and Afar. Most displaced citizens have been returned to their homes, and efforts are underway to repatriate the remaining displaced people and provide them with sustainable rehabilitation.
To further strengthen its capabilities, Ethiopia is establishing an institution capable of swift responses to natural and man-made disasters. The country is also building reserve stocks for emergencies and enacting a disaster risk management policy to prevent and control disasters.