By Thandiwe Matsenjwa
MBABANE – The National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA) has received a generous donation of three drones from the World Food Programme (WFP) in a significant step towards enhancing disaster response capabilities in the country.
The handover ceremony, attended by key figures including Deputy Prime Minister (DPM) Thulisile Dladla and WFP Country Director Deepak Shah, took place at the NDMA offices in Mbabane yesterday (Thursday, July 4, 2024).
The Deputy Prime Minister highlighted the importance of technological advancements in disaster management, aligning with Eswatini’s vision of achieving first-world status in this critical area and she urged Emaswati to shed self-doubt and instead take pride in their strengths.
“We as Emaswati should stop looking down upon ourselves as we are more equipped that we think we are. We should be proud of who we are and stand tall,” she said.
Dladla further elaborated that the drones will possess the capability to detect heat signatures, identify fires, and assess damaged infrastructure with ease.
Moreover, they will be instrumental in pinpointing potential hazards or obstacles, as well as capturing detailed imagery of affected areas. She highlighted that these functionalities will not only benefit the agency but also assist other responders in identifying risks and devising well-informed response strategies.
The Country Director of WFP, Deepak Shah, expressed optimism that sustained investments in technology and innovations will enhance the country’s ability to take prompt action during crises. He highlighted how this commitment is crucial for facilitating rapid access, response, and ultimately, saving lives and reducing the impact of emergencies.
“In representation of the WFP, I offer sincere thanks to the government of Eswatini for their collaboration in our shared mission to preserve and transform lives in the country. Your Excellency, your tireless efforts to enhance disaster response and build resilience in the Kingdom of Eswatini are greatly valued,” he said.
Acting Director of NDMA, Eric Seyama, provided insights into the operational capabilities of the drones. He detailed the advanced technology combined into these drones, emphasizing their alignment with the modern systems used in developed countries.
Seyama emphasized the critical necessity for drones in Eswatini, citing the numerous disasters that unfolded in 2023 as compelling evidence of the potential benefits of using such technology. By illustrating how the presence of drones could have avoided or reduced the impact of these disasters, he emphasized the urgent need for advanced tools in the country’s disaster management collection.
NDMA representatives mentioned how the drones will be operated by skilled Professionals who have acquired the necessary knowledge needed to operate the drones.
