An emergency simulation exercise was carried out in Rundu to test how efficient local authorities are at responding to emergency situations.

The Rundu Open Market was a hive of activity as various emergency responders and stakeholders took part in an emergency simulation exercise.

The exercise started off with a three-day planning session with representatives from Nkurenkuru, Divundu, Katima Mulilo, and Bukalo local authorities.

The exercise facilitator, Frederika Shigwedha, said, "The main aim is to bring our local structure together so we prepare for the unknown. We wanted to test the capabilities of our plans, strategies, and actions in terms of emergency risk management. Should something happen, are we ready? Do we have enough infrastructure? Do we have enough personnel? Do we have enough equipment?"

It was a chaotic affair as emergency services flooded the open market, ready to attend to the make-believe disaster.

"We simulated a gas explosion whereby one seller forgot to close her gas properly, and unfortunately the gas exploded, and we have seen victims from mild, moderate, to severe. We've also seen dead bodies, so we wanted to create that havoc situation where we could see how people from emergency responders would coordinate."

The exercise facilitator says that despite all hands being on deck, the teams could do a whole lot better.

"We are not doing the exercises to judge, but to identify the gaps so we can suggest possible solutions. I would say five out of ten. There is room for improvement."