29 • Continued from previous page Looking Ahead The DMCA is currently in the final stages of developing Montserrat’s first Comprehensive Disaster Management (CDM) Country Work Programme (CWP). This is being done with technical assistance from CDEMA and the University of the West Indies Disaster Risk Reduction Centre (DRRC). As part of the process of developing the CWP, an audit tool was used to assess the phases of the Disaster Management Cycle. The CWP was drafted by identifying and analysing the strengths, weaknesses and areas for development. This programme will serve as a national roadmap over the next 3–5 years, guiding strategic interventions to reduce vulnerability and loss from hazard impacts. It reflects a collaborative effort involving key stakeholders and aligns with the DMCA’s vision to coordinate and implement a robust disaster management programme. Recent disasters underscore the value of readiness, resources, and training. Montserrat’s journey — from informal, communityled efforts to a professional, multi-hazard agency — shows the island’s resilience and commitment to safeguarding its people well into the future.
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