In a bold step toward enhancing KwaZulu-Natal’s resilience to natural disasters, the Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA) has entered into a strategic partnership with the Development Bank of Southern Africa (DBSA).

The two entities signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) in Durban on Tuesday, 16 September, formalizing a multi-year collaboration aimed at upgrading the province’s disaster management capabilities.

The agreement was signed by the KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Reverend Thulasizwe Buthelezi, and DBSA’s Group Executive for Infrastructure Delivery, Chuene Ramphele, at a ceremony attended by senior government officials and stakeholders.

“This partnership with the DBSA is a game-changer. It combines our on-the-ground expertise and legislative mandate with the DBSA’s immense technical capacity and financial acumen,” says MEC Buthelezi.

“Together, we are building a robust shield of preparedness and resilience for the people of KwaZulu-Natal, ensuring that our response to future climate shocks is swift, effective, and sustainable,” added the MEC

DBSA’s Group Executive for Infrastructure Delivery, Chuene Ramphele, echoed the sentiment, saying the initiative represents a direct investment in the province’s safety and economic stability.

“This MOA with KZN COGTA is a direct investment in the safety and economic stability of the province. We are committed to providing the necessary technical and financial support to ensure this programme’s success, creating a model of disaster resilience that can be replicated across the continent,” added Ramphele

The MOA outlines several key focus areas, including:

• Technological Integration: Upgrading the CSIR CMORE data system and enhancing COGTA’s GIS platform to enable real-time disaster data collection and coordination with partners like SAWS, DWS, and SANRAL.

• Infrastructure Planning: Reviewing municipal stormwater systems and developing new guidelines for sustainable drainage to reduce flood risks.

• Technical Support: Deploying expert teams to assist municipalities with post-disaster assessments and recovery planning, backed by DBSA’s project management oversight.

• Capacity Building: Training Disaster Management, Fire, and Rescue personnel, empowering community leaders and Amakhosi, and procuring critical emergency equipment for under-resourced areas.

• Command Centre Upgrades: Refurbishing District Disaster Management Centres into modern emergency response hubs.

The partnership is expected to significantly improve the province’s ability to respond to climate-related emergencies and safeguard vulnerable communities.

IOL NEWS

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