Algeria has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to international cooperation in disaster risk reduction and climate change mitigation. Minister of Interior, Local Authorities, and Transportation, Said Saayoud, emphasized this commitment during the G20 Disaster Risk Reduction Working Group Ministerial Meeting in Cape Town, South Africa.Minister Saayoud presented a comprehensive overview of Algeria’s efforts in preventing and mitigating the impact of natural disasters, highlighting disaster prevention as a national priority integrated into the country’s public policies. He stated that Algeria’s participation in the international forum underscores its dedication to supporting global initiatives aimed at enhancing disaster resilience and fostering collaboration and solidarity among nations to address shared challenges related to climate change and major risks.
Algeria has made significant strides through crucial legal and institutional reforms, most notably the enactment of a new law on February 26, 2024. This law establishes general rules for disaster prevention and intervention, expanding the scope of recognized major hazards to 18 principal risks, all managed within detailed prevention and preparedness plans.
In line with the implementation of the “Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction,” Algeria has demonstrated notable progress in several key areas. These include strengthening infrastructure, developing technical and technological capabilities, and improving early warning and rapid response systems, particularly in the face of recurring disasters such as earthquakes, floods, and forest fires. The country has also adopted modern technologies like Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and climate data analysis, facilitating information exchange and enabling more effective proactive decision-making.
Regarding financial support, Minister Saayoud highlighted Algeria’s establishment of effective funding frameworks to assist disaster victims through specialized funds such as the Natural Disaster Guarantee Fund, the National Agricultural Cooperation Fund, and the National Solidarity Fund. These efforts also involve the participation of the insurance sector and civil society in recovery efforts and the promotion of local solidarity.
Saayoud emphasized the importance of community awareness, considering it a central element of the national disaster prevention policy. Algeria has implemented educational programs to integrate a culture of prevention into school curricula, along with launching national awareness campaigns aimed at raising awareness and improving citizen preparedness, especially among younger generations.
Concluding his remarks, the Minister reiterated Algeria’s full support for the G20 Ministerial Declaration on Disaster Risk Reduction and its commitment to further strengthening international and regional cooperation to build a safer and more sustainable future for generations to come. Algeria’s dedication to these efforts positions the nation as a key player in global disaster resilience and climate action.
Related: More algeria articles on DZWatch
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Written by Noor Eleslam
