CHINHOYI, Jun 15 (NewsDay Live) — Kariba and Hurungwe districts have adopted draft disaster preparedness plans as authorities move to strengthen prevention and response systems amid growing climate-related risks.
The plans were developed during a three-day workshop in Chinhoyi convened by the Department of Civil Protection (DCP), bringing together District Civil Protection Committees, District Development Coordinators, government ministries and development partners.
The workshop marked a shift from reactive disaster management to a prevention-focused approach.
Officials reviewed district risk profiles and identified major threats facing the two areas, including droughts, floods, human-wildlife conflict, veld fires and disease outbreaks. Forecasts from the Meteorological Services Department indicated that severe weather events could become more frequent, underscoring the need for early action.
Participants also agreed to mainstream gender considerations in all disaster management processes after the Ministry of Women Affairs highlighted the disproportionate impact disasters have on women, girls and other vulnerable groups.
Both districts drafted mitigation and adaptation plans focusing on community resilience, environmental management, protection of critical infrastructure, livelihood diversification and adaptation to climate shocks. Proposed interventions were prioritised according to their anticipated impact and available resources.
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Contingency plans were also developed, with district teams mapping possible disaster scenarios, identifying available resources, assigning responsibilities and establishing response structures.
Practical training formed part of the exercise. The Harare Fire Brigade conducted demonstrations on veld fire management, while the Zimbabwe Republic Police Sub Aqua Unit trained participants in water rescue techniques under the “Reach, Throw, Row and Go” approach to reducing drowning risks. The Zimbabwe Red Cross Society provided instruction on first aid and early warning systems.
The DCP pledged continued technical support and periodic reviews of the plans.
However, officials cautioned that preparedness documents alone would not save lives unless they are translated into concrete action.
With natural hazards expected to intensify, Kariba and Hurungwe now face the challenge of implementing the measures before the next disaster strikes.