CREWS Initiative launched in Djibouti to strengthen early warning systems and disaster preparedness
30 September 2024, Djibouti City, Djibouti – the Climate Risk and Early Warning Systems Initiative (CREWS) project is launched in Djibouti to enhance the nation's resilience against climate-related hazards. This collaborative initiative, led by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) and the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR), is set to strengthen the capacities of Djibouti’s national hydrometeorological and disaster management agencies over the next four years.
Djibouti, located in the Horn of Africa, faces significant vulnerability to climate change, with increasing temperatures, prolonged droughts, and a heightened risk of flooding impacting its population and economy. Approximately 33% of the population lives in high-risk zones, and 35% of the economy is chronically vulnerable to these climate hazards.
The CREWS Djibouti project aims to address these challenges by improving the capacity of key institutions. The project’s key outcomes include enhancing service delivery, developing risk information for early warning systems, strengthening ICT, bolstering response plans and awareness programs, and providing capacity-building programs and gender-sensitive training.
Speaking at the launch, Nora Achkar, Chief of the UNDRR Regional Office for Arab States, highlighted the importance of the project in safeguarding the future of Djibouti. This project is not just about technology and systems; it is about empowering people and institutions, she said. “By ensuring that early warning information is accessible, actionable, and tailored to the needs of all, particularly the most vulnerable, we can save lives, protect livelihoods, and reduce the devastating impacts of disasters.”
The launch event, held in Djibouti City, highlighted the importance of the initiative in enhancing early warning systems and preparedness for extreme weather events. The agenda featured presentations on the project structure, current status, and expectations for implementation by various national institutions.
The event also showcased national initiatives and contributions from development partners. Following the formal launch, a session was organized to set up the project steering committee, marking a coherent start to ensure alignment and coordination among all stakeholders involved.
The launch of the CREWS Djibouti project is a critical step towards enhancing climate resilience and safeguarding the livelihoods of Djibouti's population, providing the foundation for improved early action and response in the face of climate hazards.