AS dark clouds gather intermittently on the horizon, the people of Zimbabwe brace themselves for the onslaught of nature’s fury. However, this time around, they are not alone.
The government’s recently approved National Multi-Hazard Contingency Plan (NMHCP) has ushered in a new era of proactive disaster risk and preparedness, equipping communities from the national to the village level with the tools and resources to weather the impending storms.
In the bustling capital of Harare, Nathan Nkomo, the director for the Department of Civil Protection, recently addressed members of the Press, his voice laced with determination.
“This plan represents a significant shift in our approach to disaster management, the bottom-line being to empower communities,” he stated.
“By strengthening co-ordination structures and rapid-response mechanisms, we’re empowering communities, government agencies, local authorities and our partners to act swiftly and cohesively when emergencies strike.”
The approval of the 2025/26 NMHCP by Cabinet marked a crucial milestone in Zimbabwe's quest for disaster risk resilience.
Ratified recently (December 9, 2025), the strategic framework sets out clear guidelines for resource mobilisation, disaster risk reduction, and the cultivation of a culture of preparedness across the nation.
Experts note that the strategic framework outlines a bold vision to empower communities across the nation, empowering them with the resources, co-ordination and risk reduction strategies to weather the intensifying climate-related challenges. Esther Mujuru, a renowned disaster risk and preparedness expert, welcomed the plan as a long-overdue step in the right direction.
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“For too long, our disaster response strategies have been reactive, leaving communities vulnerable and struggling to recover.
“This plan embeds risk reduction in our national development agenda, ensuring that resilience becomes a fundamental pillar of progress.”
The need for such a comprehensive approach is underscored by the country’s vulnerability to climate-induced threats.
Forecasts predict normal to above-normal rainfall, heightening the risks of floods, storms, cyclones and landslides, weather and climate specialists have noted.
Emmanuel Mavhura, from the Bindura University of Science Education, welcomed the national plan and acknowledged the urgency of the situation.
“We can no longer afford to be caught off- guard,” he noted.
“This national plan equips us to anticipate, prepare and respond swiftly to these emerging challenges.”
At the grassroots level, the impact of the national plan is already being felt.
In the rural community of Chiredzi, Tendai Chikomo, a headman, nods approvingly in a recent interview.
“For years, we have watched helplessly as our homes and livelihoods were swept away by natural disasters.
“Now, we have a clear roadmap on how to safeguard our people and our futures.”
The national plan’s emphasis on multi-stakeholder collaboration is a key strength, according to Fred Gwaimani, a regional disaster risk reduction and management expert, at a recent regional conference organised by the United Nations Disaster Risk Reduction and Management in South Africa.
“By bringing together government agencies, civil society and development partners, we can leverage on our collective expertise and resources to build resilience from the ground up.”
He underscored the importance of this partnership approach: “The plan recognises that resilience is not just a government responsibility; it's a shared endeavour that requires the active participation of all citizens, including local communities’ inclusion.”
For Chikomo, the plan’s focus on empowering local communities is particularly gratifying.
“We’ve been given the tools and training to identify risks, mobilise resources and respond effectively locally when emergencies arise.
“This sense of ownership and agency is empowering our people to take charge of their own safety and future.”
However, the launch of the NMHCP has raised some critical questions and comments from experts and specialists in the field of disaster risk preparedness and management.
“While the plan is a step in the right direction, we need to ensure it is well-resourced and implemented effectively at the community level,” stated disaster risk management specialist, Themba Ndlovu.
“The true test will be whether this plan translates to tangible improvement in how communities respond accordingly to emergencies.”
Another expert, Esther Mapfumo, argued: “The plan must address the unique needs of key and vulnerable communities, such as the elderly and persons with disabilities. Inclusive disaster planning is crucial for saving lives.”
Concerns were also raised about the plan’s coordination with local authorities.
“There is a need to be clear communication channels and seamless collaboration between national and municipal disaster management teams,” cautioned emergency response co-ordinator, Michael Chinembiri.
As Zimbabwe braces for the impending climate-induced challenges, the NMHCP stands as a testament to the nation’s commitment to disaster risk resilience.
“This is more than just a disaster response blueprint,” emphasises Mavhura.
“It’s a roadmap to a future where development and disaster risk reduction go hand-in-hand, safeguarding lives, livelihoods and the progress we’ve worked so hard to achieve.”
In Chiredzi, Chikomo’s optimism is palpable as he looks towards the horizon: “We are no longer passive victims of nature’s wrath. We are a nation prepared, a nation resilient and a nation ready to face whatever challenges the future may hold.”
