Belize Named Vice President of Disaster Management Alliance

Belize is among 13 founding members of the World Alliance for Disaster Management (WADM), which was formally established in Taipei, Taiwan. Representatives from 21 countries took part in the alliance’s inaugural activities from September 19 to 21.

A Belizean delegation was led by Chief Executive Officer in the Ministry of the Public Service, Disaster Risk Management and Enterprise, Rolando Zetina.

Belize has been entrusted with the Vice Presidency of the alliance and is expected to take over as President at its next conference. 

WADM is intended to help member countries work together on disaster preparedness through training, information and technology sharing, and mutual assistance.

The partnership is particularly relevant for Belize, which faces hazards including hurricanes, flooding, storm surge and drought.

Zetina said the goal is to build cooperation that can be useful before disasters strike. “As we establish WADM, Belize looks forward to working with Taiwan and all participating countries to build a platform where expertise can be shared, relationships can be strengthened, and practical cooperation can take place before a disaster occurs.”

The government says Belize’s involvement builds on its existing cooperation with Taiwan on disaster risk management and will help strengthen the country’s preparedness and resilience.