The Sunday News
Sukulwenkosi Dube-Matutu, Plumtree Correspondent
THE Civil Protection Unit has appealed to various stakeholders to make contributions towards funding this year’s International Day for Disaster Reduction commemorations which will be held in Plumtree, Matabeleland South Province on 13 October.
Speaking during a preparatory meeting that was held in Plumtree, CPU deputy director, Mrs Sibusisiwe Ndlovu said the budget for the commemorations had been set at $20 000.
She said this year’s commemorations will be held under the theme “Home safe home — reducing exposure, reducing displacement.
“This year’s International Day for Disaster Reduction will be held at Plumtree High School on 13 October. So far we have a tentative budget of $20 000 that we need to raise for the event.
“We are in the process of engaging non-governmental organisations and various stakeholders to assist us in raising funds. We would also like to appeal to various stakeholders to assist with contributions so that this day will be a success,” she said.
Mrs Ndlovu said Matabeleland South Province had been selected to host this year’s commemorations as some of its districts had been severely affected by floods.
She said this year’s theme sought to reduce the number of people affected by disasters.
“Matabeleland North Province, in particular Tsholotsho District, was the worst affected area by the floods which hit the country. However, last year’s commemorations were held in Matabeleland North Province and we feel we covered much ground hence the need to hold it in Matabeleland South.
Bulilima District was the second most affected area after Tsholotsho and there is a need to reach out to them as well.
“Our theme for this year seeks to reduce the number of people being affected by disasters. The global target is to have lowered the number of those affected by disasters in the decade 2020-2030 compared to the period 2005- 2015,” said Mrs Ndlovu.
She said during the commemorations members of the public will be educated on prevention measures, safety issues and survival techniques on prevalent risks in their homes and surroundings.
Mrs Ndlovu said the commemorations will also seek to advocate for effective policies that could help reduce exposure to risks among other issues.
