The African Union Commission (AUC), through its Department of Agriculture, Rural Development, Blue Economy and Sustainable Environment (ARBE), today inaugurated the first-ever Symposium of the Africa Science and Technology Advisory Group on Disaster Risk Reduction (Af-STAG DRR), in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe.

The event was co-organised with the Partners Enhancing Resilience for People Exposed to Risks (Periperi U). Periperi U is a consortium of African universities that builds local capacity in disaster risk reduction and climate change adaptation.

Held under the theme “Strengthening the Role of Science, Technology and Innovation for Evidence-Based Implementation of the Sendai Framework,” the landmark event aims to bridge the gap between scientific research and policy action, building a more resilient and prepared Africa.

The symposium takes place at a time when the continent is increasingly affected by disasters driven by climate change, unplanned urbanisation, and environmental degradation, challenges that threaten lives, livelihoods, and the sustainable development aspirations outlined in Agenda 2063 and the global Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015-2030.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Mr. Farai Hokonya, Deputy Director in the Department of Civil Protection within Zimbabwe’s Ministry of Local Government and Public Works, emphasized the need for a coordinated and comprehensive approach to preparedness.

“Zimbabwe stands ready to support all African Union initiatives aimed at strengthening disaster risk reduction on the continent,” he said.
In his keynote address, Mr. Harsen Nyambe, Director of Sustainable Environment and Blue Economy at the African Union Commission, underscored the urgency of strengthening Africa’s scientific and technological capacity:

“Africa’s vulnerability to disasters is increasing, eroding our developmental gains. This symposium is a pivotal step towards mobilizing our continent’s scientific and technological expertise to create evidence-based solutions that protect our communities and safeguard our future. It is about turning knowledge into actionable policies that save lives and livelihoods.”

The symposium brings together policymakers, scientists, innovators, representatives from Regional Economic Communities (RECs), United Nations (UN) agencies, civil society organizations, and the private sector. Over several days, participants will explore key topics, including the impacts of climate change, multi-hazard early warning systems, the application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and geospatial technologies in risk mapping, nature-based solutions, and the integration of indigenous knowledge systems with modern science.

Dr. Eltson Eteckji Fonkeng, Chair of Af-STAG, stressed that the symposium represents a turning point for the continent:
“Science and technology are not just tools; they are the foundation of intelligent and proactive disaster risk reduction. This symposium serves as our platform to forge a united front, where policymakers demand evidence and scientists deliver practical innovations. Our goal is to build a clear, action-oriented roadmap that will guide Africa in leveraging its intellectual capital to reduce disaster risk and build lasting resilience systematically.”

Key Expected Outcomes
• Adoption of a Symposium Communiqué / AfSTAG Declaration on Science, Technology and Innovation for DRR
• Development of a Comprehensive Policy Brief capturing key deliberations and recommendations
• Formulation of an Action-Oriented Roadmap to advance DRR across Africa
• Strengthening of continental partnerships and collaborative networks for disaster risk reduction.

About the Africa Science and Technology Advisory Group on Disaster Risk Reduction (Af-STAG)
The Africa Science and Technology Advisory Group on Disaster Risk Reduction (Af-STAG) is a 15-member body established by the African Union Commission’s DRR Unit within the Department of Agriculture, Rural Development, Blue Economy and Sustainable Environment (ARBE). It provides scientific and technical advice to guide Africa’s disaster risk reduction agenda.
Comprising experts from all five African Regions, the Group was formed through a transparent selection process for a two-year term (2023–2025). Af-STAG’s core mission is to strengthen evidence-based decision-making by generating data, analyses, and technical insights to support the implementation of the Africa Regional Strategy for Disaster Risk Reduction, the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015-2030, and Agenda 2063.

For further information, please contact:

Mrs. Teresa Pinto, Technical Coordinator, Disaster Risk Reduction Unit | Directorate of Sustainable Environment and Blue Economy | African Union Commission | E-mail: PintoT@africanunion.org | Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

Dr. Eltson Eteckji Fonkeng | Chair, Africa Science and Technology Advisory Group on Disaster Risk Reduction (Af-STAG DRR) | Email: info.aftsagdrr@africanunion.org

For Media Inquiries:

Mr. Gamal Eldin Ahmed A. Karrar | Senior Communication Officer | Information and Communication Directorate (ICD), African Union Commission | E-mail: GamalK@africanunion.org

Mr Molalet Tsedeke | Information and Communication Directorate | African Union Commission
Tel: +251-911-630 631 | E-mail: MolaletT@africanunion.org | Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

Ms. Maryanne Muriuki, Communications Analyst – Disaster Risk Reduction | Disaster Risk Reduction Unit | African Union Commission | E-mail: MuriukiM@africanunion.org | Addis Ababa, Ethiopia