Empowering Youth in Disaster Risk Reduction for a Resilient Zimbabwe

11 October 2024, Marondera - Chinatsa Secondary School in Zimbabwe set the stage for an inspiring celebration of the International Day of Disaster Risk Reduction (IDDRR). This year, the focus was on education's vital role in equipping children and young people to handle disasters and build a resilient future. As the world marks IDDRR on October 13 each year, Zimbabwe kicked off its events early, demonstrating a strong commitment to blending education and youth empowerment into its disaster preparedness strategies.

Ms. Miranda Tabifor, UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator ad interim and UNFPA Representative, emphasized the importance of the Sendai Framework, adopted in 2015, which advocates for the inclusive participation of youth in disaster risk reduction (DRR). She stressed the necessity of educating children to empower them, highlighting the Comprehensive School Safety Framework by UNESCO and UNICEF as important tools to this mission. "Our actions today shape tomorrow's world," Ms. Tabifor stated. “By fostering disaster preparedness education, we equip our children and youth with the critical tools to tackle climate challenges effectively."

Honorable Engineer Benjamin Kabikira, Deputy Minister of Local Government and Public Works, recognized climate change-induced events—such as cyclones and droughts—as growing threats. He highlighted the critical role of educating children to safeguard their futures. To this end, Zimbabwe has integrated DRR into school curricula and tertiary education programs, aligning with this year's IDDRR themes.

A standout initiative is Zimbabwe's formation of 'Youth Disaster Clubs' in rural areas. These clubs empower students, like Tendai, a high school senior in Marondera, to participate in community drills and teach peers about emergency response. Tendai shared, "I've learned that we can make a real difference. It's not just about learning for ourselves; it’s also about helping to protect our families and neighbors."

Efforts are also being made to include youth in provincial disaster management structures, enhancing their leadership roles from grassroots levels. The participation of Zimbabwe's youth in these activities embodies resilience and hope for a sustainable future.

The impact of climate change remains a pressing concern. Severe El Niño-induced droughts threaten Zimbabwe's youth, affecting food security and health. Disasters also disrupt education, leaving 1.8 million children vulnerable.

Despite advancements, graduates in disaster management face challenges in employment opportunities. However, the government continues to integrate DRR into educational frameworks, offering diplomas and degrees, while prioritizing youth empowerment in alignment with the Sendai Framework.

Government initiatives, such as President Mnangagwa’s Youth Desk, aim to empower young people in disaster prevention. The Department of Civil Protection advocates for youth involvement in disaster management at all levels to enhance early warning systems and comprehensive data collection.

Cross-sector collaborations are encouraged to build resilience among children and youth in both rural and urban settings. Internationally, the IDDRR underscores the significant role schools play in disaster risk education, with over 400 million students globally affected by extreme weather.

Incorporating DRR education—costing approximately $18.51 per child—can significantly reduce the impacts of climate shocks. Globally, child-centered DRR policies focus on integrating children’s vulnerabilities and ideas into risk reduction strategies.

Zimbabwe’s celebration of the International Day of Disaster Risk Reduction spotlighted the collective responsibility to cultivate resilience. As the frequency of disasters increases, empowering children and youth through education becomes essential to fostering safer, more resilient communities. 

The commitment of local and international stakeholders to embed these practices into everyday teaching heralds a promising, more disaster-free future for generations to come.