Carmo District, Bari Region, August 04 – The Puntland Media Association (MAP), in collaboration with Free Press Unlimited, successfully organized a two-day multi-stakeholder forum on Disaster Risk Management (DRM) from August 2-3.
The forum gathered a diverse group of participants, including the Deputy Chairman of Carmo, Mohamed Jama, District Secretary Abdirisaaq Ahmed, MAP Chairman Mohamed Caynsane, local journalists, and representatives from various civil society organizations. Their active engagement underscored the significance of a united approach to effectively managing disaster risks.
MAP Chair and Danwadaag program representative, Mohamed Dahir Warsame, highlighted the forum’s critical role in advancing DRM practices: “This forum is a crucial step towards enhancing our disaster risk management practices. By bringing together diverse stakeholders, we are not only building a more resilient community but also underscoring the pivotal role of media in disaster risk management. Media plays an essential role in raising awareness, disseminating timely information, and fostering a well-informed public that is better equipped to handle potential disasters.”
This forum is part of a series of engagements and workshops organized under the DANWADAAG program. Recently, the program expanded to include Waaciye and Carmo Districts, a strategic move aimed at strengthening disaster preparedness and resilience in these areas.
As part of this expansion, MAP, VNG, and CARE—the local consortium partners implementing the Danwadaag program—conducted entry meetings and trainings for local communities, media, and district authorities in Waaciye and Carmo.
These visits provided a platform for discussing inclusive disaster risk management principles and practices, thereby enhancing the understanding and capabilities of district administrations, councilors, CSOs, community groups, and the media.
In his address at the joint sessions, MAP Chair Mohamed Dahir Warsame reiterated MAP’s commitment to the Danwadaag program. He stated, “Through outcome 4 of the Danwadaag program, we aim to increase the contribution of media in disseminating relevant disaster risk management information to all DRM stakeholders. This initiative is essential for ensuring that timely and accurate information reaches those who need it most, thereby enhancing our collective preparedness and response capabilities.”
The expansion into Waaciye and Carmo aimed to integrate these districts into the broader DRM framework established in previously targeted areas. By building local capacity and promoting sustainable and effective DRM practices, the program sought to ensure that communities were better prepared and equipped to handle potential disasters.
The forum featured interactive sessions, workshops, and discussions designed to address key issues related to disaster risk management. Participants engaged in activities that highlighted the importance of community involvement, the role of media in disseminating information, and strategies for effective disaster response and recovery.
Moreover, the forum provided an opportunity for stakeholders to share their experiences, challenges, and best practices in disaster risk management. This exchange of knowledge and ideas contributed to a more comprehensive understanding of the issues at hand and fostered stronger partnerships among the participants.
In conclusion, the multi-stakeholder forum on Disaster Risk Management in Carmo District reflects MAP and Free Press Unlimited’s commitment to building resilient communities through collaborative efforts, comprehensive training, and strategic information dissemination.
This event, and the broader DANWADAAG program, pave the way for a safer and more informed Puntland, equipped to face future challenges with confidence and coordination.
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