CIMA Research Foundation was commissioned by UNDRR to help establish a Network of Centers of Excellence (NOE) for DRR in Africa. The project, titled Strengthening the Africa Network of Excellence for DRR, is funded by the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation and the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation (AICS). It contributes to the EW4All Initiative launched by the UN Secretary-General, aiming to cover the entire global population with early warning systems by 2027.
Launched in January 2023 and conducted in two phases through 2024, the project establishes a Network of Excellence (NoE), a cooperative framework among African and international centers of expertise. Together, they will jointly develop and provide tailored tools, services, products, and training to African institutions involved in disaster risk reduction. The network is envisioned as a platform for exchange among research centers, specialized agencies, universities, and national, regional, and continental disaster risk management authorities, as well as relevant existing programs across the continent. The ultimate aim is to deliver training, generate new evidence and knowledge, and provide innovative services and solutions in the field of risk reduction.
CIMA Research Foundation’s contribution
CIMA Research Foundation plays a key role in defining the composition, governance, and services of the NoE, overseeing its implementation, and launching the training program by leveraging the network’s existing expertise and services. Particular focus is given to Multi-Hazard Early Warning Systems (MHEWS). During both phases of the project, CIMA coordinates workshops and training sessions, introducing the use of the myDEWETRA platform, which also supports the Situation Rooms developed as part of the AMHEWAS program, another African contribution to the EW4All Initiative.
The training events include both theoretical and practical components, focusing on data access and the necessary tools for risk monitoring, as well as the creation and compilation of warning bulletins. Additionally, the training emphasizes anticipatory actions to mitigate risks associated with climate and weather conditions and their impacts. The importance of integrating indigenous knowledge for disaster risk reduction is also taken into consideration.
Finally, CIMA Research Foundation coordinates the expert exchange program, including on-the-job training, job shadowing, and South-South and South-North mobility exchanges. This program aims to establish a secondment mechanism among continental centers, regional centers, and member states, welcoming African delegates to share experiences and enhance technical skills related to risk forecasting and management.
