Malawi Launches Emergency Telecommunications Working Group
The launch represents a critical step in enhancing Malawi's emergency preparedness and communication capabilities during potential crises.
BLANTYRE, Malawi — Malawi has established the National Emergency Telecommunication Working Group (NETWG) to improve disaster response and communication during emergencies, the Malawi Communications Regulatory Authority (MACRA) announced Tuesday, writes Mayamiko Phiri.
The initiative aims to create a resilient and efficient emergency telecommunications system capable of saving lives and protecting communities during disaster situations.
Zadziko Mankhambo, director of broadcasting at MACRA, highlighted the significance of the two-day workshop held December 17-18.
"This workshop is very important because it's where we are going to adopt standard operating procedures on how telecommunications are clustered under Dodma, and we will be able to respond whenever disaster strikes," Mankhambo said.
The NETWG's primary responsibilities include:
- Mapping emergency telecommunication resources
- Coordinating disaster response efforts
- Ensuring telecommunications infrastructure can withstand natural disasters
Key participants in the initiative include the Malawi Defense Force, Malawi Police Service, and telecommunications and broadcasting leaders.
"We wanted to adopt procedures which have been drafted so each player in the sector will know what to do in times of disasters," Mankhambo added.
The launch represents a critical step in enhancing Malawi's emergency preparedness and communication capabilities during potential crises.