Government has launched a multi-agency disaster response capacity-building exercise in Bulambuli District, bringing together key stakeholders to strengthen coordination in emergency response.
Code-named “Okoa Maisha 26,” the exercise is being coordinated by the Uganda People's Defence Force under the Uganda Rapid Deployment Capability framework.
The initiative has attracted participation from the Office of the Prime Minister, the Uganda Red Cross Society, the Uganda Police Force, and local government authorities. It aims to improve preparedness and response to disasters through better coordination.
Commissioning the training, State Minister for Defence and Veteran Affairs Huda Abason Oleru said the exercise is designed to address coordination gaps that have previously hindered effective emergency response.
“When disasters occur, there is often confusion over which agency should take the lead. As government, we have not been well coordinated, and this compromises emergency response,” she said.
“This training focuses on coordination across MDAs and adopting a systematic approach to addressing challenges, while also building the skills of disaster response teams.”
Representing the Chief of Defence Forces, Commander Reserve Force, Gen Charles Otema highlighted the increasing disaster risks facing communities and emphasized the importance of a multi-sectoral approach.
“We have previously had disjointed operations, with the President acting as the central coordinator. This training is meant to strengthen institutional coordination and support those efforts,” he said.
Exercise Director and Deputy Commander Land Force, Gen Joseph Ssemwanga noted that the training will test real-time response systems and strengthen command structures among participating agencies. He added that Bulambuli was deliberately selected due to its vulnerability to landslides.
“We may have adequate resources, but they are scattered across different institutions, making it difficult to respond swiftly. This multi-sectoral training is intended to improve how we manage and respond to disasters,” he said.
Commander of the Uganda Rapid Deployment Capability Earnest Nuwagaba said the exercise includes simulation drills involving local communities, particularly in rescue and evacuation operations.
The week-long training is expected to enhance integrated leadership and coordination in disaster response, as Uganda continues to face increasing climate-related and humanitarian emergencies.