Ekurhuleni strengthens disaster response with NGO partnerships
Ekurhuleni partners with local organisations to improve disaster readiness and support for affected communities.
The CoE, through its DEMS, has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with several non-governmental organisations to strengthen collaboration in responding to future disasters, in line with the Disaster Management Framework of 2005.
The organisations signing the MoU included the Red Cross Gauteng, Meals on Wheels, the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) and Hamnet.
Hamnet, a specialist in communication systems, plays a crucial role during disasters by establishing communication channels and maintaining records of epicentres and disaster magnitudes.
At the signing ceremony, MMC Sizakele Masuku stressed the importance of mutual aid agreements, saying the municipality must enter into partnerships with organs of State, the private sector, NGOs or communities to provide effective disaster response, relief and recovery within its jurisdiction.
“In line with the Act, all government spheres must assess their capacity for disaster risk reduction, response, and recovery. Where needed, they should strengthen this capacity through mutual assistance agreements with neighbouring municipalities, the private sector, other government entities and communities. This agreement is timely as the city faces a rise in fire-related incidents,” Masuku said.
Hamnet specialises in communication systems used during disasters, addressing the common problem of damaged communication infrastructure that hinders rescue and management teams from effectively communicating and keeping records.
Meals on Wheels, experts in providing nutritional meals to families and individuals affected by disasters, also joined the agreement.
The NSRI, specialising in water-related rescues, explained how it supports inland communities during life-threatening emergencies in rivers, dams, and floods.
The South African Red Cross, known for its impartial humanitarian assistance, including first aid, home-based care and support for old age homes and disaster victims, also committed to the partnership with the DEMS.
Community Safety Oversight Committee chairperson Clr Lethabo Rachidi said this collaboration would enhance the municipality’s response to disaster incidents.
For any life-threatening emergency, call the city on these numbers:
• 011 458 0911 (normal call rates)
• 0177 (toll-free from a landline.
