09 May 2025 BRICS Brasil 2025

Prince Zolile Burns-Ncamashe, Deputy Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, is currently in Brazil, representing South Africa at the BRICS Brasil 2025 Disaster Management Working Group meeting. The gathering is attended by delegations from South Africa, the United Arab Emirates, Russia, Indonesia, Ethiopia, Egypt, India, and China. The meeting focuses on advancing cooperation in disaster risk reduction and management.

BRICS member states collectively acknowledged the increasing frequency and severity of both natural and man-made disasters—ranging from climate-related events such as floods, wildfires, and droughts to industrial accidents and urban infrastructure failures. These disasters threaten lives, livelihoods, and sustainable development. The Working Group emphasized the urgency of enhancing collective preparedness and resilience through innovation, shared expertise, and joint initiatives.

Day One of the meeting was dedicated to finalizing the draft Work Plan for 2025–2028 and discussing the renaming of the Working Group. Delegates reached consensus on adopting the new name—Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Working Group—to more accurately reflect the group’s evolving scope and focus. A key session featured a roundtable on strengthening collaboration between the Transport Working Group and the Disaster Prevention and Monitoring Working Group, emphasizing the importance of integrated, cross-sectoral approaches to resilience-building.

Day Two focused on strengthening national Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) capacities across member states. Ministers and senior officials shared national strategies, challenges, and innovative solutions. The day also saw the launch of Community Plans for Risk Reduction and Climate Adaptation, a publication highlighting grassroots-driven approaches to resilience and climate adaptation.

The meeting concludes today, 9 May 2025, with the formal adoption of the 2025–2028 Work Plan, the endorsement of the new name, and the release of a joint statement by member countries. The BRICS Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Working Group continues to play a pivotal role in promoting cooperation, knowledge exchange, and sustainable disaster preparedness among its members.