Validation of the Diagnosis of National and Local Capacities to Manage Disaster Risk in the Republic of Mauritius conducted by the Capacity for Disaster Reduction Initiative (CADRI)

Mauritius is vulnerable to the adverse impacts of climate change and resulting extreme weather events including cyclones, storms and heavy rains, abnormal tidal surges and swells, dry spells and floods. The country is also increasingly exposed to geological hazards (landslides), biological (epidemics) and technological hazards.

The Capacity Diagnosis was conducted in 2019 by a multidisciplinary team comprising 15 experts mobilized through the Capacity for Disaster Reduction Initiative (CADRI) and from the National Disaster Risk Reduction Management Centre (NDRRMC) of Mauritius. The aim of this diagnosis is to strengthen the policy and institutional framework of Mauritius for disaster risk reduction, and to better prepare and protect Mauritius against natural disasters and epidemics.

The workshop was attended by officials from key Government institutions involved in the capacity diagnosis and the UN team. The CADRI Partnership team presented the main findings and recommendations of the report and addressed comments received from the participants.

In his opening remarks the Vice-Prime Minister Dr. The Hon. Anwar Husnoo highlighted the need to better understand the role and responsibilities of stakeholders in disaster risk management and to strengthen preparedness for response and recovery. The United Nations Resident Coordinator, Ms. Christine N. Umutoni, in behalf of the UN team commended the significant efforts made by the Government of Mauritius in terms of disaster risk management and stated that the recommendations presented in the report are meant to strengthen institutions and policy framework. A process of prioritisation is needed to ensure a systematic plan on implementation of selected key recommendations.

The National disaster risk management council met after the workshop to validate the report which will be launched on 13th October, the international day for disaster risk management.