EXPERTS have urged the government to strengthen disaster preparedness, response and recovery systems by ensuring telecommunications remain operational during emergencies.
The experts called for integration of ICTs in disaster management, to strengthen the country’s capacity to respond to natural and human-induced disasters.
This emerged during the validation of the National Emergency Telecommunications Plan (NETP) at a workshop held in Harare on Tuesday.
ICT, Postal and Courier Services permanent secretary Beullah Chirume underscored the critical role of reliable communication in saving lives and coordinating effective emergency responses.
“The NETP is more than just a policy document,” she said.
“It is a comprehensive road-map to ensure that our telecommunications systems remain functional before, during and after emergencies.”
Department of Civil Protection chief director Nathan Nkomo said the initiative sought to strengthen national efforts to promote risk awareness, enhance disaster resilience and reinforce coping mechanisms across communities.
International Telecommunication Union area representative for southern Africa, Halima Letamo, emphasised the importance of modern communication technologies in disaster risk management.
- Tarakinyu, Mhandu triumph at Victoria Falls marathon
- Plot to oust ED thickens
- Bread in short supply as bakeries demand US$
- Young vocalist making southern Africa dance
Keep Reading
“Robust telecommunications infrastructure and digital tools are critical to mitigating disasters, saving lives and reducing financial losses,” she said.
There have been several reports of communities being cut off during natural disasters such as floods, crippling rescue efforts.
