Simpson M
Uganda Red Cross Society, in collaboration with the Disaster Management Committee of Rukungiri on Friday concluded a five-day workshop that commenced on November 13, 2023. The primary objective of the workshop was to formulate the Rukungiri District Contingency Plan.
The workshop focused on creating a contingency plan to enhance the preparedness and response capabilities for disasters in Rukungiri district. Mugasha Jimmy, the Red Cross branch manager for Rukungiri and Kanungu, emphasized that the disaster preparedness program aims to reduce the impact of disasters by raising awareness in communities about potential dangers. This involves supporting communities, forming disaster assessment groups, and assisting in vulnerability and capacity assessments to develop community action plans.
Mugasha Jimmy explained that these action plans would outline community-based disaster risk reduction activities, such as community education, training, and the establishment of early warning systems. The project also aims to provide relief items to affected areas and communities.
During the event, Mr. Namaara Frank, the Red Cross Operations Manager, highlighted that the Red Cross, in collaboration with the Rukungiri District Disaster Management Committee, plans to scale up actions that enhance the capacity of vulnerable communities. These actions will prioritize health promotion, disease prevention, food security, and general disaster risk reduction activities. The project is funded by the European Union.
Namaara Frank mentioned that Rukungiri district has encountered humanitarian challenges linked to current climate change trends. The Uganda Red Cross Society is proud to collaborate with the Rukungiri Disaster Management Committee to instill a culture of safety and resilience towards disaster reduction and climate change adaptation in high-risk districts in Uganda.
Geoffrey Kyomukama, the Rukungiri District Chairperson LC5, welcomed the initiative and urged local governments to be ready to respond to disasters. He also expressed support for the swift approval of the contingency plan, emphasizing its importance in guiding humanitarian actors in disaster management.
Mr. Ongom, the Deputy RDC of Rukungiri district, expressed gratitude for the decision of the Uganda Red Cross Society to extend the disaster risk reduction program to Rukungiri district. He commended the Red Cross for the initiative and highlighted the significance of the contingency plan as a crucial backup in their preparations to address disasters.
The function was also attended by the Rukungiri District Deputy CAO, Mr. Agaaba David Hillary.
