Happening

Gqeberha, Eastern Cape| Director General Mbulelo Tshangana has today delivered the keynote address at the Africa, Europe and Middle East (AEME) Earthquake Response Exercise currently taking place at the Nelson Mandela University. The weeklong exercise brings together national responders, provincial and municipal role players, international USAR teams, Emergency Medical Teams (EMTs), UN Disaster Assessment and Coordination (UNDAC) experts, and humanitarian partners from across the AEME region.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, DG Tshangana noted that this exercise comes at a time when disasters are becoming more frequent and complex due to climate change, infrastructure vulnerabilities, and rapid urbanisation. In this context, he stressed that strong, coordinated disaster response is not optional but is essential.

He highlighted that the AEME Exercise is more than a simulation but also a strategic investment in resilience. It brings together international, national, provincial, and local responders, forming a complete ecosystem of disaster management excellence.

DG Tshangana also reflected on South Africa’s progress in strengthening disaster readiness: improving frameworks, professionalising response systems, revitalising fire services, and deepening cooperation with global partners through the NDMC.

To international teams, he expressed gratitude for their solidarity and commitment to global humanitarian cooperation. To South African participants, he urged them to use the exercise to refine systems, test readiness, and strengthen capabilities.

As the week begins, DG Tshangana reminded participants that preparedness, partnership, and unity are the foundations of effective disaster response