The National Disaster Risk Management Division (DRMD) has rolled out a comprehensive sensitization strategy combining digital early warning messages and direct community engagement as the nation braces for the impending El Niño weather pattern. DRMD Director for Disaster…

The National Disaster Risk Management Division (DRMD) has rolled out a comprehensive sensitization strategy combining digital early warning messages and direct community engagement as the nation braces for the impending El Niño weather pattern.

DRMD Director for Disaster Humanitarian and Operations Management, Amos Mumba, explained that the division’s dual-track strategy leverages modern technology alongside traditional communication channels.

“Under this framework, mass SMS alerts will be paired with physical community deployments to maximise coverage across the country,” he said.

He said the initiative aims to mitigate the potential adverse effects of the changing weather conditions by ensuring that vulnerable communities are adequately informed and prepared ahead of any climate shocks.

Mr Mumba noted that the division is determined to proactively manage the humanitarian risks associated with El Niño rather than merely reacting after disasters strike.

He stated that timely information dissemination remains the most cost-effective tool in modern disaster risk reduction.

Mr Mumba made a strong appeal for the active involvement of traditional leaders across Muchinga Province.

He acknowledged that royal establishments hold influence and command the trust necessary to drive community compliance during emergencies.

The DRMD operations chief concluded by

 calling on all key stakeholders, including civic leaders and non-governmental organisations, to collaborate closely with traditional authorities to build climate resilience at the grassroots level.

” The sensitisation campaign is designed to bridge the communication gap that often leaves rural communities exposed during severe weather events,” he added.

And Speaking during the interaction with DRMD officials, Mpika District Commissioner, David Siame strongly threw his weight behind the campaign but called for absolute simplicity in the packaging of the sensitisation messages.

Mr Siame warned that heavily technical meteorological jargon would only confuse ordinary citizens, defeating the core purpose of the early warning system.

The District Commissioner emphasised that for the response to be effective, information must be translated into clear, actionable and culturally relevant language that local residents can instantly comprehend and implement.

He noted that saving lives and protecting livelihoods depend entirely on how well the public understands the impending risks.