OBJECTIVES 

1. To establish and strengthen an adequate, efficient and effective disaster risk management system in The Gambia.

2. To prevent new and reduce existing disaster risks through structural and non-structural measures.

3. To ensure a comprehensive approach to managing all hazards and disasters in line with international frameworks such as the Sendai Framework.

4. To integrate disaster risk management into national, regional and sectoral planning for sustainable development.

5. To enhance national, institutional and community resilience to withstand, respond to and recover from disasters

CONTENT

1. Policy Scope and Definitions

• The policy defines key DRM concepts including disasters, hazards, vulnerability, resilience, risk reduction, and preparedness.

• It adopts an all-hazards multi-risk approach, covering climate, biological, technological, and human-induced hazards.

• Highlights the importance of resilience-oriented national development.

2. Guiding Principles

The policy is guided by nine principles:

• Decentralization

• Human rights

• Evidence-based planning

• Community involvement

• Accountability and transparency

• Integration and coordination

• Inclusivity (gender, disability, children)

• Sustainability

• Partnership and collaboration

3. Institutional Arrangements

The policy establishes and clarifies the roles of key bodies:

A. National Disaster Management Council (NDMC)

• Highest policy body for disaster management.

• Provides guidance and oversight.

B. National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA)

• Lead coordinating institution for national DRM.

• Responsible for policy implementation and stakeholder coordination.

C. Regional, District and Village Disaster Committees

• Support grassroots implementation.

• Strengthen localized disaster preparedness and response.

4. Cross-Cutting Issues

The policy integrates multiple cross-cutting elements:

• Climate change adaptation

• Environmental protection

• Gender equality

• Disability inclusion

• Health and pandemics

• Technology and innovation

• Data and information management

5. Disaster Preparedness and Early Warning

• Strengthening early warning systems.

• Establishing communication channels for alerts.

• Ensuring readiness at national and community levels.

• Developing contingency and preparedness plans.

6. Disaster Prevention and Mitigation

• Land-use planning and enforcement.

• Environmental conservation and reforestation.

• Infrastructure safety and standards.

• Risk reduction programmes across all sectors.

7. Disaster Response and Relief

• Clear procedures for emergency response.

• Coordination of rescue, evacuation and relief distribution.

• Protection of vulnerable groups during emergencies.

8. Disaster Recovery and Reconstruction

• Build Back Better (BBB) principle.

• Rehabilitation of livelihoods, services, and infrastructure.

• Integration of recovery into long-term development.

9. Financing Mechanisms

• Establishment of a National Disaster Fund.

• Encouraging insurance mechanisms and risk financing tools.

• Promoting partner and private-sector engagement.

10. Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL)

• A dedicated M&E system to track progress of policy implementation.

• Periodic review of disaster risk trends.

• Strengthening data systems to inform decision-making.