2009 International Day for Disaster Reduction in Kenya
The biannual campaign for ‘Hospitals safe from Disasters’ was widely promoted in Nairobi Kenya as part of the celebration of the 2009 International Day for Disaster Reduction. The event took place in the August 7th Memorial Park of Nairobi, the former site of the US Embassy that was bombed in 1998 which is also a public place to develop awareness. The event was organized by the Kenya Ministry of Special Programmes, Kenya Red Cross, St. John Ambulance, Medics 24 and hospitals in coordination with the Memorial Park administration, UNISDR, UNOCHA and WHO. Among the participants were civil society, universities, practitioners and public were present.
As a guest of honor the Minister of Special Programmes, Hon. Dr. Naomi Shaban gave a key note speech on the importance of Disaster Reduction at a global scale, particularly in Kenya. The message of the UN Secretary-General was delivered by the UNISDR-Africa highlighting the importance to have safe hospitals and health facilities. Others speeches showed the commitment of the Kenyan government, civil society, UN and practitioners to move forward Disaster Risk Reduction agenda. The event was complemented with exhibition of stands, drills and simulation for preparedness for an actual disaster scenario with a makeshift hospital, equipment and volunteers.
The event was covered by media, TV, radio stations, newspapers and magazines to promote a culture of prevention in the public.