By Tabora Bojang
The United States Council on Global Development [USCGD] whose chairman was recently on a working visit to the Gambia is set to partner the National Disaster Management Agency NDMA in supporting the country’s pre and post disaster management systems.
The USCGD is a consulting group based in Washington DC and works at the government level to provide comprehensive, growth oriented solutions to the problems faced by developing countries.
“We all know that development and urbanisation in The Gambia has completely changed the flooding patterns especially in urban areas. This is coupled with unregulated housing and indiscriminate dumping of waste which continues to hamper NDMA’s response to disaster management,” NDMA executive director Sanna Dahaba said.
Mr Dahaba said this was why his agency saw the need and invited them [USCGD] to see how they can “intervene to help us address the flooding problems and other associated risks that are posing serious challenges and negative impact on our economy.”
Dr Reuben Egolf the chairman of the Council who described the Gambia’s disaster problems as “complex” said his organisation is optimistic about making a critical contribution to Gambia’s long-term efficiency in disaster management.
The chairman disclosed that the Council had conducted a disaster risks and management survey in the Gambia in January which took stock of preliminary proposals on disaster management and relief in the Gambia.
“We came with grateful hearts to be able to do something in this country” Dr Egolf said at the press briefing on Friday.
According to him, the Council will serve as a funding channel through the mobilisation of funds for projects submitted by the NDMA which aims to provide solutions for the drainage situations in the communities as well as projects by other government agencies.
“Upon our return this time we will be consulting with some of the largest companies in the US, to solicit more help,” he said.
