Staff Reporter
In a bid to enhance disaster response and management, the Chief Director in the Department of Civil Protection (CPU), Nathan Nkomo said they have come up with a comprehensive inclusive plan factoring in traditional leaders as pivotal in supporting government initiatives.
Addressing journalists at the sidelines of national commemorations of disaster risk reduction, Nkomo emphasized the importance of harnessing the expertise and proximity of traditional leaders in disaster management.

Nkomo said that traditional leaders have been actively involved in the development of the government’s disaster risk management plan.
“By recognizing their role as the first and last responders during emergencies, the government has taken them on board as key stakeholders in disaster preparedness efforts. These leaders are vital in our approach to reducing the impact of disasters. Their proximity and deep understanding of their communities can help ensure that disaster risk management measures reach the most vulnerable populations promptly.
We want to harness the critical mass of 35,000 village heads in Zimbabwe. We want to take disaster risk management to that level so that it’s nearer to the people once we give them the capacity and resources where they are required,” he said.
Nkomo stressed the significance of collaboration among all stakeholders involved in disaster risk reduction.