In a landmark event for disaster preparedness and climate resilience, Liberia proudly inaugurated the Early Warnings for All Initiative. This ambitious project, the first of its kind in West Africa, marks a significant stride towards safeguarding communities and bolstering national resilience against the increasing challenges posed by climate change.
The momentous launch event began with a heartfelt message from the Vice President, Hon. Jeremiah Kpan Koung, conveyed by a distinguished representative. The Vice President, though unable to attend due to pressing national commitments, extended his warm greetings and emphasized the critical importance of robust early warning systems in mitigating the impacts of natural hazards on Liberian communities.
”As Liberia faces increasing challenges posed by climate change, including frequent natural hazards, we recognize the critical importance of robust early warning systems. These systems are pivotal in safeguarding our communities, minimizing loss of life, and enhancing our resilience against disasters."
The Vice President lauded global initiatives like EW4All, which aim to ensure that every person on Earth benefits from effective early warning systems by 2027. Coordinated by renowned organizations such as UNDRR, WMO, ITU, and IFRC, EW4All aligns seamlessly with Liberia's commitment to building national capabilities across key pillars. These include enhancing risk knowledge, strengthening observation and monitoring, improving communication and dissemination, and bolstering preparedness to respond.
An essential highlight of the speech was the emphasis on inclusivity and equity in disaster response. The Vice President underscored that the impacts of disasters and climate change vary based on levels of exposure and vulnerability drivers, including gender, age, and disability. He called for an intersectional approach to ensure that early warning services are inclusive, responsive, and equitable.
"**It is important to recognize that disasters and climate change affect people differently based on their level of exposure, and different vulnerability drivers, including gender, age, disability, etc. An intersectional approach is required to ensure that early warning services are inclusive, responsive, and equitable.**"
The speech highlighted Liberia's steadfast dedication to implementing and advancing essential early warning systems through collaborative efforts and strategic partnerships with international organizations and local stakeholders. This commitment aims to forge a safer, more resilient future for all Liberians.
"**Through collaborative efforts and strategic partnerships, including with international organizations and local stakeholders, Liberia remains steadfast in its dedication to implementing and advancing these essential early warning systems. Together, we strive towards a safer, more resilient future for all Liberians.**"
The government reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the Early Warnings for All Initiative in Liberia by making tangible investments in building and strengthening the infrastructures necessary for effective early warnings. Special appreciation was extended to international development partners, including the government and people of Sweden, the One UN Family, IFRC, ITU, and the leadership and staff at the National Disaster Management Agency.
In a historic declaration, the Vice President's representative officially launched the Early Warnings for All Initiative in Liberia, heralding a new era of disaster preparedness in West Africa.
“On behalf of the Vice President, I now hereby officially launch the Early Warnings for All Initiative in Liberia, the first of its kind in West Africa. "
This initiative stands as a testament to Liberia's proactive stance in addressing climate challenges and protecting its citizens through advanced early warning systems. The launch sets a precedent for other nations in the region, fostering a collective movement towards a more resilient and prepared Africa.