Addis Ababa to Host 16th African Disaster Management Summit

Mintesinot Nigussie

Ethiopia is set to host the 16th session of the African Risk Capacity Group Conference of the Parties (COP) from April 8 to April 9 in Addis Ababa. The summit will bring together ministers, senior officials and representatives from 39 African countries to strengthen disaster preparedness and response systems across the continent.

Organised by the Ethiopian Disaster Risk Management Commission in partnership with the African Risk Capacity Group, the event will focus on improving national and regional capacity to anticipate, finance and manage natural hazards such as droughts, floods and disease outbreaks. Delegates will exchange experiences on early warning systems, risk financing mechanisms and institutional frameworks designed to reduce dependency on external aid.

Commissioner Dr. Shiferaw Teklemariam said the summit aims to help African nations confront rising disaster risks at a time when international assistance is declining. He stressed the need for stronger domestic planning and funding tools to build long-term resilience.

Ethiopia’s leadership in initiatives such as green economy development, food security and humanitarian response will be highlighted during discussions and site visits to key infrastructure projects in Addis Ababa. The ARC Group, established under the African Union, has been central to pooling risk, developing financial instruments and providing rapid payouts to affected countries.

The group has helped countries access innovative financing linked to climate and disaster risk resilience, underscoring the importance of coordinated continental action. About 300 participants are expected at the summit, which organisers hope will deepen engagement with private sector partners, financial institutions and insurers.

The event is expected to build sustainable, African-led disaster management strategies that reduce reliance on external aid and strengthen regional cooperation in the face of increasing climate-related hazards.

Businesses in insurance, logistics, infrastructure and humanitarian sectors are closely watching the outcomes, as stronger risk financing mechanisms could open new opportunities for public-private partnerships across Africa.

The summit represents a significant platform for Ethiopia to showcase its growing role in continental disaster management and attract investment in resilience-building projects.

Overall, the 16th African Risk Capacity Group COP is expected to deliver concrete commitments and practical tools that will enhance Africa’s ability to manage disasters independently and effectively.