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MANDATE OF THE DIVISION

In accordance to the Disaster Risk Management Act, 2014 the Department of Risk and Disaster Management is established for the effective management of disaster through a comprehensive and integrated all-hazard approach and for matters connected therewith or incidental thereto.

RISK KNOWLEDGE AND INTELLIGENCE SECTION

The Risk Knowledge Unit is responsible for building and maintaining the national evidence base on hazards, vulnerability, exposure and risk. The Unit focuses on long-term risk understanding and supports planning, prevention and risk reduction efforts.

Key functions of the Risk Knowledge Unit include;

  1. Data Management
    • Maintain and update the Disaster Risk Information Management System (DRIMS).
    • Collect and store information on hazards, exposure, and vulnerability.
    • Ensure data quality, reliability, and accessibility to government and partners.
  2. Risk Assessment and Profiling
    • Conduct national and district-level risk assessments.
    • Produce hazard maps, risk profiles, and vulnerability analyses.
    • Prepare recommendations for risk reduction actions for ministries, districts, and agencies.
  3. Intelligence and Analysis
    • Analyse disaster data to identify trends and emerging risks.
    • Produce analytical summaries and briefs to inform policy and planning.
    • Support research collaborations with national and regional institutions.
  4. Integration into Planning
    • Provide technical advice for integrating DRR into development projects, land use, and infrastructure planning.
    • Work with national and local planning authorities to promote risk-informed decision-making.
  5. Information Dissemination
    • Produce maps, situation updates, and reports for the Director of DRRM, the Principal Secretary, and other government partners.
    • Support the Public Information and Communications Section with verified data for public awareness.

CIVIL PROTECTION AND EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT SECTION

The Civil Protection and Emergency Management Section (CPES) ensures the country’s operational readiness and effective coordination during emergencies. It manages the planning, exercising, and operation of the NEOC and leads the coordination of response and early recovery activities.

  1. Preparedness and Planning
    • Develop and maintain contingency and operational plans for major hazards.
    • Organise drills, simulations, and training exercises with ministries and districts.
    • Maintain standby rosters, contact lists, and resource inventories for rapid mobilisation.
  2. NEOC Readiness
    • Ensure the NEOC remains functional and ready for activation at all times.
    • Maintain emergency communication systems and procedures.
    • Conduct regular checks of equipment, power backup, and ICT systems.
  3. Emergency Coordination
    • Manage and coordinate multi-agency response operations during emergencies.
    • Operate the emergency hotline (160) and ensure timely dispatch of relevant agencies.
    • Support Incident Command System (ICS) operations through planning, logistics, and communication functions.
  4. After-Action and Recovery
    • Conduct After-Action Reviews (AARs) following emergencies or exercises.
    • Document lessons learned and recommend improvements.
    • Support damage and needs assessments and coordination of early recovery activities.
  5. Community Preparedness
    • Support local government and district authorities with community disaster preparedness programmes.
    • Coordinate with volunteer groups to strengthen local readiness.