"Seychelles Advances Emergency Preparedness: National Roadmap & Action Plan for Early Warning Systems"
Amateur Radio Community Supports Seychelles' Early Warnings for All (EW4ALL) Initiative
The Amateur Radio community is proud to participate in the recently validated National Roadmap and Action Plan for the Early Warnings for All (EW4ALL) initiative in Seychelles. This initiative, which was launched in July last year, aims to enhance national preparedness for potential disasters by ensuring that every citizen receives timely and effective alerts.
The Role of Amateur Radio in EW4ALL
As a key component of emergency communications, the Amateur Radio community plays an essential role in the third pillar of EW4ALL—telecom systems. Ensuring that warnings reach every individual in the country, especially in remote areas, is critical to saving lives. Seychelles Communications Regulatory Authority (SCRA) is leading efforts in this sector, and the Amateur Radio operators stand ready to assist in strengthening these capabilities.
Interdependence and Collaboration
The EW4ALL initiative is built on four pillars:
- Risk Knowledge – Led by the Disaster Risk Management Division (DRMD), this pillar ensures that communities are informed about potential hazards.
- Forecasting and Observation – Managed by the Meteorological Office, this component focuses on gathering accurate data to predict potential disasters.
- Telecom Systems – Overseen by the SCRA, this pillar ensures that alerts reach every citizen, regardless of internet access or communication infrastructure.
- Response – Managed by the Red Cross of Seychelles, this final pillar coordinates the necessary actions in response to disasters.
As Amateur Radio operators, we understand the importance of interdependence and collaboration. Our ability to provide independent communication networks during emergencies makes us valuable partners in the implementation of this roadmap.
Advancing Communication Resilience
Seychelles' Chief Executive of the Seychelles Meteorological Authority (SMA), Vincent Amelie, emphasized that by 2027, Seychelles aims to have an advanced early warning system in place. A crucial part of this effort involves reviewing outdated legislation that currently governs the Meteorological Office and DRMD. This update will ensure that policies align with modern needs and evolving challenges.The roadmap also makes provisions for climate change, integrating new equipment like a weather radar, which will enhance detection capabilities for extreme weather events. Minister for Agriculture, Climate Change, and Environment, Flavien Joubert, highlighted the urgency of this initiative, referencing the devastating floods of December 2023 and rising sea levels that continue to threaten coastal communities.
Commitment to Emergency Preparedness
The establishment of a National EW4ALL Coordination Committee will oversee the implementation of this roadmap. The committee will meet quarterly to assess progress, review strategies, and ensure that all aspects of the plan remain on track. Alice Soares from the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) emphasized that this roadmap serves as a tool for coordination across all sectors, guiding planning, investment, and funding.Amateur Radio operators have long been at the forefront of emergency communications. Whether by providing backup communication when traditional networks fail or facilitating real-time information sharing, we are dedicated to supporting national and global efforts in disaster preparedness.
Moving Forward Together
As Seychelles continues to enhance its early warning systems, the Amateur Radio community remains committed to working alongside national agencies to ensure seamless and effective communication. Our ability to operate under challenging conditions makes us indispensable partners in building a safer and more resilient nation.We encourage all Amateur Radio enthusiasts to stay engaged, participate in training exercises, and contribute to this life-saving initiative. Together, we can ensure that no one is left behind when disaster strikes.For more information, updates, and opportunities to get involved, stay tuned to our website and social media channels.