TANZANIA has joined global leaders at the 8th Global Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction, reaffirming its commitment to tackling disasters through international cooperation and the implementation of global frameworks aimed at safeguarding lives, livelihoods, and ecosystems.

The forum, held from June 2 to 6, 2025, in Geneva, Switzerland, is a biennial event organized by the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) under the mandate of the UN General Assembly. It brings together governments, stakeholders, and UN entities to accelerate action and share best practices in disaster risk management.

Representing Tanzania, Dr. Jim Yonazi, Permanent Secretary in the Prime Minister’s Office for Policy, Parliamentary Affairs, and Coordination, highlighted the importance of the platform as a “vital mechanism” for tracking progress, sharing knowledge, and forging partnerships in line with global goals.

"This platform is an essential tool for enhancing cooperation in implementing other global agendas that contribute to disaster risk reduction, including the Paris Agreement on climate change and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs),” Dr. Yonazi stated during the forum.

At the center of the discussions is the implementation of the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015–2030, which serves as the guiding global policy on reducing disaster risks and building resilient communities.

This year’s platform focused particularly on progress and gaps identified in the framework’s midterm review and the subsequent 2023 UN General Assembly Resolution.

Among the key agenda items were enhancing national and local strategies for disaster preparedness and response, especially in the wake of increasingly frequent and severe climate-related disasters. The forum also explored how to reinforce existing networks and establish new ones to facilitate the sharing of technology, knowledge, and financing for disaster risk reduction.

Dr. Yonazi emphasized Tanzania’s dedication to integrating international experiences into national strategies through the National Disaster Management Policy and Act, noting that participation in the forum would improve cross-sector coordination, economic planning, and climate resilience.

“Outcomes from this platform will directly support Tanzania’s efforts to strengthen infrastructure, mobilize financial resources, and enhance early warning systems through international partnerships,” he said.

Looking ahead, Tanzania aims to benefit from global collaborations to bolster its disaster preparedness and recovery systems, while contributing to broader global sustainability and resilience efforts.

 The Global Platform has been convened seven times since its inception in 2007. This 8th edition continues to serve as a crucial touchpoint for global stakeholders committed to reducing disaster risk and achieving sustainable development for all.