AU Commission consolidates continental voice at the 8th Session of the Global Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction

Several global agenda to expire in 2030, including the Sendai Framework

Through the Department of Agriculture, Rural Development, Blue Economy and Sustainable Development (ARBE), the African Union Commission (AUC) is participating in the 8th Session of the Global Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction (GPDRR 2025). Under the theme, “Every Day Counts, Act for Resilience Today”,  the event is scheduled to be held from 2-6 June 2025 in Geneva, Switzerland.

Cementing strategic advocacy and partnerships, the AUC continues to play a transformative role in addressing disaster risks and ensuring sustainable development across Africa. Spearheaded by H.E. Moses Vilakati, AU ARBE Commissioner, the delegation will spotlight key areas of progress and success, where concerted efforts are needed, and commitments required to accelerate the Sendai Framework’s implementation. The Commission will consolidate the continental voice by finalising the Africa Common Position and advocate for its reflection in the global declaration.

The AUC Commission implements the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015-2030. The Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) Unit has operationalised the Africa Programme of Action (PoA) for the implementation of the Sendai Framework. The AU Commission has engaged with Member States, Regional Economic Communities, donor and implementing partners, youth and academia, and civil society organisations to build and strengthen disaster resilience.

The AUC’s track record in achieving a resilient continent is exemplified by strengthened disaster risk governance, actionalised multi-hazard early warning systems for effective early action, galvanised the groundwork for urban resilience, consolidated Africa’s capacity towards disaster preparedness and response, and enhanced resilience in the Sahel.

“The African Union Commission remains committed to accelerating the implementation of the Sendai Framework through the Africa Programme of Action.” - H.E. Moses Vilakati, AU Commissioner for Agriculture, Rural Development, Blue Economy and Sustainable Development.

Collaborating Partners on the AUC’s Disaster Risk Reduction Portfolio

The European Union-funded Intra-ACP Natural Disaster Risk Reduction Programme (NDRRP) catalysed the African Union Commission’s disaster risk reduction activities. Through this solid foundation, the Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) Unit has expanded its scope and established programmes, including the Africa Multi-Hazard Early Warning and Early Action System (AMHEWAS), the Africa Urban Resilience Programme (AURP), and the Sahel Resilience Project.

In addition to the EU, the DRR functions are also supported by the generous governments of Italy, Denmark, Sweden, Norway and Angola, as well as implementing partners, namely, the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR), the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the World Bank (WB), the CIMA Research Foundation, and the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) on behalf of Germany.

For further information, please contact:

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

For media enquiry:

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

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

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