Evaluating progress on Target E of the SFDRR in SADC

Abstract

Disaster risk reduction (DRR) strategies are essential for formalizing its effective use. This study's main objective was to evaluate the progress of Target E of the SFDRR in SADC. A mixed-methods research methodology was employed to evaluate the MSs’ progress. Interviews with DRR focal persons within the four SADC MSs and the SADC secretariat were conducted for this. The semi-structured interviews involved an online questionnaire. The questionnaire was designed to explore the challenges and successes of DRR implementation in SADC MSs and the importance of secretariat support. The responses were analysed to understand how the SADC secretariat could better support its MSs in their DRR efforts. However, there were some drawbacks to using a questionnaire for data collection. For example, respondents might not be entirely honest in their answers or dispose of the time or motivation to answer the questions thoroughly. Additionally, the questionnaire might not be able to capture the complexity of the respondent's experiences. DRR strategies have been in place among 15 of the 16 SADC MSs, while the Democratic Republic of the Congo was found to be the exception to this. Some SADC MSs have taken significant steps towards developing strategies, promulgating laws, and revising existing plans, strategies, and legislation around DRR since the Hyogo Framework for Action (HFA) was established in 2005. However, more must be done to ensure these strategies are effectively implemented and monitored throughout the region. Poor technical and institutional capabilities, insufficient funding, little decentralization of DRR, and weak governance are the main obstacles to their implementation. These obstacles limit the ability of governments to create effective policies and plans for DRR and allocate sufficient resources for their implementation. In addition, the lack of decentralization of DRR means that local governments are often unable to access the necessary resources and support for such implementation. For instance, local governments often lack the technical expertise to develop and implement the plans they need to guide the implementation of additional DRR activities that can assist in risk reduction and resilience building. Governments in SADC and different stakeholders must focus immediately on accelerating the development of risk-informed plans to meet the Sendai Framework's goals, notably Target E. The latter set the ambitious goal of reducing disaster losses in lives, natural resources, and economic assets by 2030. To achieve this, governments and a wide range of stakeholder groups must prioritize risk reduction measures, such as early warning systems, better building codes, and improved land use planning. To further strengthen their efforts, governments and a wide range of stakeholder groups should emphasize public awareness initiatives and provide resources for communities to pursue DRR strategies.