The Disaster Risk Management Commission has declared that humanitarian self-reliance is not just an initiative but a patriotic call to action.
This statement comes amidst a growing recognition of the need for sustainable disaster management strategies that empower communities rather than relying solely on external aid.
At a recent capacity-building forum, stakeholders from federal, regional, and city administrations gathered to discuss the implementation of strategic frameworks aimed at bolstering the humanitarian self-reliance movement.
The forum emphasized the importance of collaboration among various sectors to create a robust disaster risk management system that can withstand future challenges.
Ambassador Shiferaw Teklemariam, Commissioner of the Disaster Risk Management Commission, underscored the significance of these efforts.
"We are committed to ensuring that the principles of self-reliance are not just theoretical but are actively practiced," he stated.
He highlighted that initiatives launched in 2018 have laid a solid foundation for this movement, which aims to shift the paradigm of disaster response from dependency to resilience.
Aklilu Tadesse, State Minister for Cabinet and Sector Institutions Supervision at the Prime Minister's Office, echoed these sentiments. He stressed the importance of sovereignty, dignity, and independence, which he noted were hard-won through sacrifice.
"We must ensure our sovereignty, dignity, and independence with our sweat," Aklilu asserted, calling on citizens to embrace technology as a tool to overcome natural adversities.
The government's commitment to humanitarian self-reliance is seen as a crucial step towards mitigating the historical losses associated with dependency on external aid. By fostering an environment where communities can thrive independently, officials hope to cultivate a sense of ownership and pride among citizens.
As Ethiopia moves forward with this initiative, the emphasis will be on harnessing local resources and knowledge to build a resilient society capable of facing future disasters head-on.
The call for humanitarian self-reliance resonates deeply within the fabric of national identity, urging all citizens to play their part in this transformative journey.