
Cambodia's early warning system celebrates its tenth anniversary and expands into Laos
21.12.2023 / 07:56 | Aktualizováno: 22.01.2024 / 07:37
In response to the escalating challenges posed by climate-related disasters, Cambodia's Early Warning System (EWS) has marked a decade of significant achievements since its establishment in 2013. Led by the National Committee for Disaster Management (NCDM) and supported by various stakeholders, the EWS has become a cornerstone in protecting communities from the imminent threat of flooding. Covering all 25 provinces of Cambodia, the system not only issues timely alerts but also empowers local authorities through training and capacity-building initiatives.
A remarkable milestone in the EWS journey is its expansive coverage, now extending to every corner of Cambodia. By strategically forming Village Disaster Management Groups, the system ensures that even the most vulnerable communities receive early warnings, enabling them to take proactive measures in anticipation of impending floods. This decentralized approach underscores a commitment to inclusivity and community involvement.
Over the past decade, the EWS has prioritized a coordinated response by investing in comprehensive training programs and capacity building for both National and Provincial Committee for Disaster Management authorities. This has enhanced their ability to interpret and respond to early warnings while fostering a culture of preparedness at all levels of governance. The commitment to empowering local authorities highlights the system's dedication to creating a resilient and self-sufficient disaster management infrastructure.
As the EWS celebrates its 10th anniversary, the focus shifts towards embracing innovation and technology as foundational elements of its ongoing success. By staying at the forefront of advancements in early warning systems, the EWS aims to provide even more accurate and timely alerts. This commitment to staying abreast of technological developments reflects a forward-thinking approach to disaster management in Cambodia.
The achievements of Cambodia's Early Warning System over the past decade owe much to the steadfast commitment of the Royal Government of Cambodia. Their dedication to reinforcing the country's disaster management capabilities has been instrumental in the success of the EWS. International donors, notably the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Czech Republic, have played a pivotal role by providing crucial financial support since the system's inception. The collaboration with civil society and the unwavering support of the Cambodian people have been equally vital in making the EWS a genuine success story.
As Cambodia's Early Warning System commemorates its 10th anniversary, it stands as evidence of the power of collaboration, innovation, and community engagement in disaster management. The journey of the past decade reflects the system's resilience and adaptability to the changing landscape of climate-related challenges. Moving forward, the EWS remains committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of Cambodia's communities. The financial support from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Czech Republic during this milestone underscores the international community's recognition of the project's decade-long impact in building resilience and safeguarding lives.
More recently, the positive impact of the EWS has extended beyond Cambodia's borders. People in Need Lao has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment in Lao PDR. Under this cooperation, the "Project to strengthen the early warning system to prevent floods in the Lower Mekong Basin in Lao PDR", funded by the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC) and the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), will be implemented.