GFDRR works on knowledge and capacity enhancement in disaster prone areas by supporting information management and exchange, education and training, research, and public awareness campaigns.
Examples include:
In Vietnam, over 500 government staff in its agriculture, education, and health sectors are being trained in early warning, preparedness, and recovery. The methodology for damage and loss assessment (DaLA)—including the preparation of recovery plans in flood situations—has been institutionalized within the government and is expected to be replicated at provincial and district level, in partnership with other development agencies.
In Indonesia, as a component of a structured support program for Indonesia’s National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB), GFDRR’s “Training of Trainers” modules and programs are being carried out to strengthen capacities in Post-Disaster Needs Assessment (PDNA) and recovery planning at the national level. Furthermore, at municipal level, an application of the Climate Resilient Cities Primer is being piloted in three cities—Jakarta, Yogyakarta and Surabaya. This initiative is expected to help mainstream DRR and climate change adaptation (CCA) in urban management through improved spatial/master plans, land use, and environmental rehabilitation.
GFDRR funded a DRR program for the municipality of Quito in Ecuador with the objective of building a culture of disaster prevention and resilience. The methodology incorporates broad safety concepts for urban risk mitigation—taking into account natural and technological risks, crime and violence, as well as road safety issues within Quito. Based on a participatory process and active communication strategy, the projects are to strengthen local DRR capacity by engaging a wide range of stakeholders from the municipal government, academia, community organizations, and the private sector.