The 3rd SADC INFORM Risk Model Workshop
The INFORM Risk model is a risk assessment tool that can support strategic and programmatic decisions about crisis and disaster prevention, preparedness and response. SADC Member states convened in Mbabane, Eswatini; where they were capacitated on the Maintenance of the INFORM risk model.
To date, SADC Secretariat has facilitated roll out of 3 INFORM workshops; one in South Africa-Johannesburg in April, Namibia-Windhoekin August and the most recent in Eswatini. The high representation of Member States demonstrated commitment and support towards the implementation of the process. At continental level, African Union Commission also participated. The roll out and maintenance of the INFORM Risk model offers an opportunity to build capacity for Member States. Furthermore, facilitates integration of Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) within the urban sector in relation to utilization of risk data in programming and ensuring that cities are resilient to disasters/hazards.
Updates provided by Member States highlighted positive progress in the implementation of the INFORM Risk. At the same time, Member States were at different levels on the utilization of the risk model. Some of the key takeaways include high level of interest from Member States to learn from one another as part of knowledge sharing. Especially, from those who were at advanced level of rolling out the risk model. At sectoral level and citing the example of Eswatini, national government has integrated risk data from the model within the national housing project framework. Leading to the conceptualization of the ‘Resilient housing’ project. In addition, data on dominant hazards was considered during the design of housing plans for local communities.
Tanzania, presented an innovative approach which emanates from INFORM Risk roll out workshop held in Windhoek in August. The innovation is a customization of the INFORM Risk and complements their existing system. New set up enables them to discuss with stakeholders on risk data and analysis, indicator updates etc. In the context of River Basin Organizations (RBOs) and in relation to Transboundary Natural Resources Management, Member States highlighted the relevance of the INFORM risk data in the programming of conservation measures. For example, data sharing and utilization on projected droughts, floods and early warning. To conclude, SADC Humanitarian and Emergency Operations Centre (SHOC) gave an input on its operations. When in full operation, the SHOC is anticipated to be the custodian of all risk data from Member States. This would lead to data accuracy and enhance preparedness of Member States.
The workshop made important recommendations and observations to be considered. Currently, the data sets lack evidence on the level of resilience from disasters at Member States level. As a result, Member States highlighted a need to invest in data analysis with a focus on coping capacity and integration of the INFORM Risk model. To enhance utilization of the risk model, a user guide will be developed. This would enhance continuity and serve as a reference by Member States after the project has phased out.
