By: Kemo Kanyi
The National Disaster Management Agency of The Gambia received a whoping one million Euros financial support from the Agence Francaise De Development (AFD) to help victims affected by flooding in the country.
According to NDMA, in 2022, our nation confronted a catastrophic flood that severely impacted the lives of over fifty thousand individuals, leaving many families in desperate need of assistance, recognizing the magnitude of the disaster, the National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA) reached out for support from the French Development Agency (AFD).
Sanna Dahaba, the Executive Director of NDMA, said the AFD, demonstrating its commitment to humanitarian aid, responded affirmatively by allocating One Million Euros to help those adversely affected by the floods in the country.
“The financial assistance provided by the AFD is intended not only to aid the recovery of flood victims but also to bolster the institutional capacity of the NDMA. This dual focus is essential for ensuring a more effective response to future disasters. To enhance operational readiness particularly during the rainy season, the NDMA utilized part of the funds to procure crucial equipment, including 125 tablets for data collection and management, 8 motorbikes for rapid mobility, 8 water pumping machines and 5 pickups to strengthen the Agency capacity,” Mr. Dahaba outlined during a handing over ceremony held at the agency’s head office on Friday.
He stated that the items will be strategically positioned in the regions to optimize disaster response efforts and facilitate timely assistance to those in need. “This materials/equipment will significantly enhance our ability to respond promptly and efficiently to future emergencies.”
He added that the materials/equipment will be instrumental as the agency intends to construct 31 flood resistant houses for flood affected households in 2022 across the country, this year, adding that the beneficiaries were carefully identified based on clear cut criteria.
He extends gratitude to the French Development Agency (AFD) for their generous support and assured that the vehicles will be utilized effectively to serve the communities before, during and after emergencies/disasters.
Clemence Cazaux, a representative of AFD, urged for the utilization of the aid as intended, she added that the government is committed to supporting The Gambia in issues of humanitarian assistance.
Muhammed Bah, representative of the Office of the Vice President expressed government’s appreciation to the financial support to the country, adding that the aid will be fully utilized to help the victims of flooding.