The Hardap Regional Governor, Riaan McNab, has appointed 35 members to the Regional Disaster Risk Management Committee (RDRMC), aimed at strengthening the region's readiness for natural disasters.

During a workshop at Rehoboth on Wednesday, the committee members reviewed the regional Multi-Hazard Contingency Plan, set to guide them on how to respond to natural disaster emergencies in the region.

The members of the committee consist of the chairperson of the Hardap region, the chief regional officer, the head of relevant governmental institutions in the region, representatives from each local authority in the region and from the Namibia Red Cross Society (NRCS). 

McNab highlighted that the region is prone to disasters, including floods, drought, and other emergencies.

He therefore urged members to work together, as they play a vital role in safeguarding the well-being of the residents.

"Your appointment today comes with important responsibilities. The Act entrusts the RDRMC with core functions that are critical to the safety and well-being of our communities. These include conducting and contributing to disaster risk assessments, supporting the development and implementation of disaster risk reduction strategies and ensuring that disaster risk considerations are integrated into regional and sectoral development planning."

Part of the workshop was to review the Multi-Hazard Contingency Plan, which McNab says must be practical, realistic and responsive to the evolving risk profile of the region.

"It must clearly outline who does what, when and how before the disaster occurs and when it does. I urge all members to engage openly, bring forward sectoral expertise and ensure that the plan reflects strong coordination mechanisms and effective community channels," stressed McNab.

McNab said further appointments of additional members will be made from faith-based organisations, including churches, non-governmental organisations and traditional authorities.