Enhancing community awareness on disaster preparedness and disaster response
In the northern Bahr El Ghazal state, community leaders and communities are increasingly taking on the responsibility for disaster management, response, and preparedness in the two counties of Aweil East and Aweil North. This progress is made possible by strengthening community-based disaster risk management (CBDRM) through the active involvement of community members, leaders, and other stakeholders, equipping them with knowledge in disaster risk reduction (DRR) and early warning systems (EWS). Given the counties' susceptibility to flooding, community leaders have conveyed their gratitude for the training sessions provided by the NAF project.
Notably, World Vision’s Nexus Accelerator Fund (NAF) project activities in Mangar Tong Payam and Malual Centre Payam, Aweil East and Aweil North Counties, respectively, involve a hazard Mapping process, allowing children to engage creatively by drawing and colouring areas that represent places likely to be affected by floods. This practical approach not only raises awareness about the risks but also encourages the younger generation to understand disaster preparedness. Through these efforts, the NAF project is fostering a more informed and proactive community, ultimately aiming to reduce the devastating impacts of flooding in Northern Bar El Ghazal state.
“Many times, when going to church, sometimes I will go when the road is dry, but coming back, I see that some part of the road is wet,” Dut.
Dut, a 10-year-old boy, participated in an early warning stimulation activity focused on environmental awareness. He described how, on their way to school or church, he and his friends often found the roads dry. However, upon returning, they noticed the roads became wet, indicating that water levels were rising nearby. This observation highlights the importance of disaster risk reduction and early warning and their potential impacts on daily life. Such insights can help communities prepare for unexpected situations, fostering a greater sense of awareness and preparedness among residents.
Angelo Akech Wieu, the Payam administrator of Malual Centre payam in Aweil North County, emphasised the importance of community involvement in recognising the early signs of floods. He commended World Vision for its efforts in educating community members, particularly children, about these crucial indicators. Since many families rely on children to graze livestock such as goats and cows, these young ones often have the first opportunity to spot impending flood threats amidst heavy rains. By ensuring that everyone is informed about these warning signs, there is a strong belief that this year will see fewer instances of loss, including damage to homes, property, and livestock.
The collective awareness fostered by education empowers the entire community, creating a safer environment and enhancing resilience against natural disasters. With improved knowledge and preparedness, the people of Mangar Tong can better protect themselves and their assets, thereby raising hope for a safer future.
“I think this year we will not see much loss because almost everyone in the community knows the early signs of floods,” said Angelo Akech Wieu.
