Chronicle Editor
Mthabisi Tshuma in Harare
THE International Telecommunications Union (ITU) has selected Zimbabwe, Namibia and Tanzania as beneficiary states in Southern Africa to receive technical support towards implementation of a National Emergency Telecommunication Plan (NETP).
Through this partnership, Zimbabwe would leverage the expertise and resources of the ITU to strengthen its telecommunications infrastructure, enhance co-ordination among stakeholders and ensure that citizens have access to reliable communication channels during times of crisis.
Emergency communication is a critical component of disaster management as it plays a vital role in saving lives and mitigating the impact of disasters.
The country hosted the first consultative workshop in Harare last week where delegates discussed the issue including the remodelling of the Sadc Model National Emergency Telecommunication Plan (NETP).
Guest of honour, Information Communication Technology, Postal and Courier Services Deputy Minister, Dingumuzi Phuti, said the meeting marked a significant milestone in the country’s efforts to enhance emergency communication and response capabilities.
“I would like to express my gratitude to the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) for their support in assigning a consultant to assist us in transposing the Sadc Model NETP. The ITU’s expertise and guidance will undoubtedly prove invaluable as we work towards developing our National Emergency Telecommunication Plan,” he said.
“The decisions made by the Sadc ministers responsible for ICTs in 2023 regarding the National Emergency Telecommunications Plan (NETP) and related initiatives are crucial for enhancing emergency communications and response capabilities in the Sadc region.”
Deputy Minister, Phuti said the approval of the Situational Analysis Report on NETP by the region reflects a commitment to strengthening telecommunications infrastructure for disaster management.
He said the directive to explore the provision of Satellite Communications for Emergency Communications demonstrates the pro-active approach to leveraging technology for efficient and reliable emergency communication services.
“This initiative has the potential to significantly enhance communication capabilities during crises. Further, the directives to develop specific model regulatory instruments to support Sadc member states in implementing their NETP are essential for ensuring a co-ordinated and effective response to emergencies,” said the Deputy Minister.
“The proposed regulatory measures, such as waiving type approvals, facilitating import/ export of telecoms equipment and granting temporary RF licences, aim to streamline emergency communication processes and remove barriers that may hinder rapid response efforts.
“The initiatives focus on improving communication systems, identifying vulnerabilities and ensuring network redundancy to mitigate risks during emergencies.”
Deputy Minister Phuti said the decisions taken by the Sadc ministers underscore the importance of leveraging telecommunications technologies and regulatory frameworks to strengthen emergency communication systems in the region.
By implementing these recommendations and initiatives, he said Sadc member States can enhance their resilience and responsiveness to disasters, ultimately contributing to the safety and well-being of their populations.
“By transposing the Sadc Model NETP, we are taking a pro-active step towards ensuring that our country is well-prepared to respond effectively to emergencies and disasters,” said Phuti.
“The Sadc Model NETP provides a comprehensive framework for establishing robust emergency telecommunication systems, enhancing co-ordination, among stakeholders and ensuring the availability of communication services during crises.
“By aligning our national plan with this model, we are not only improving our own preparedness but also contributing to regional efforts to enhance emergency communication capabilities.”
Earlier, Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (Potraz) director general, Dr Gift Machengete, paid tribute to ITU for extending its assistance to Zimbabwe.
“The ministry and the regulator now have a helping hand, the ITU, for which we are highly grateful. The ITU’s decision to provide technical support to Zimbabwe underscores the importance of this initiative and the confidence placed in our nation’s commitment to enhancing emergency response capabilities,” he said.
By enhancing Zimbabwe’s capacity to respond to emergencies, Dr Machengete said the ITU support will help save lives by minimising the socio-economic impact of disasters.
He said timely and effective communication can facilitate the co-ordination of emergency response efforts, the dissemination of critical information to affected populations and the mobilisation of resources for relief and recovery.
“I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to the ITU for their support and guidance throughout this process. Their commitment to advancing global connectivity and resilience is commendable and we are privileged to benefit from their assistance,” said Dr Machengete.
“As we embark on the first steps towards the implementation of this plan, let us re-affirm our collective commitment to building a more resilient and connected Zimbabwe.
“Let us work together to ensure that every citizen can access the assistance and information they need when emergencies strike. Let’s seize this opportunity to not only enhance our emergency
telecommunications capabilities but also to build a safer, more prepared nation for generations to come.” — @mthabisi_mthire.
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