Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Strategies in West Africa, A Cross-Country Comparative Review

In recent times, global disasters are skyrocketing, especially in the face of climate change. West Africa, in particular, suffers from several disasters, mainly meteorological (storms), hydrological (floods) and climatological (droughts and extreme temperature) events where meteorological and hydrological disasters represent the most prevalent across the West African region. Although countries embark on various strategies to reduce the risk of disaster, cross regional learning and knowledge sharing seem nuanced. Using a comparative review approach, the study sought to assess management strategies in disaster risk using the key tenents of the Sendai framework as a benchmark. Ghana, Togo, The Gambia and Niger were purposively selected for the study as they represent various unique dynamics in terms of the representation of disaster in West Africa. The study found that selected countries were well-represented in policy and strategy; however, there were similar challenges across the board. Management strategies were reactive rather than responsive due to challenges with technical staff, equipment and misapplication of funds at all levels. The political will to implement and enforce documented in-country Disaster Risk Reduction Management Strategies (DRRMS) is a crucial hurdle to cross. Efforts at addressing the highlighted challenges will be a major leap in disaster management within the West African sub-region. Disaster management must be seen within the lens of a double-win mechanism that propels developmental efforts and as such be given the maximum commitment that is required.