Tanzania Scouts strengthen disaster preparedness and community resilience
On 25 May 2026, the Tanzania Scout Association trained regional Scout coordinators to strengthen disaster preparedness, humanitarian response, and community resilience across the country. The national-level training was led by Yona Benjamin, Disaster and Humanitarian Coordinator from the Prime Minister’s Office. It focused on Tanzania’s disaster management system and how Scouts can better support communities before, during, and after emergencies.
Many communities in Tanzania face serious risks when disasters occur. Limited knowledge, skills, and preparedness systems can make emergencies more devastating, with long-term effects on people, families, and livelihoods. Scouts are often trusted to provide volunteer support during emergencies, including rescue, relief, and community assistance.
The training aimed to strengthen the technical knowledge and practical skills of regional Scout coordinators so they can respond more safely, quickly, and effectively when emergencies happen. Participants learned how Tanzania’s national disaster management system brings together preparedness, response, rescue, humanitarian assistance, and the restoration of essential services. They also explored how government institutions, humanitarian partners, communities, and volunteers can work together to reduce the impact of disasters.
The training covered key areas of humanitarian action, including emergency preparedness, disaster mitigation, response coordination, monitoring, verification, trigger alert systems, and crisis communications. Participants also took part in simulation exercises and inter-agency coordination scenarios. These practical activities helped them understand how to apply disaster response procedures in real-life situations and communicate clearly during a crisis.
As disasters become more frequent and complex, Scouts in Tanzania are helping build safer and more resilient communities. By strengthening the capacity of regional leaders, the Tanzania Scout Association is supporting communities to face emergencies with greater confidence and preparedness.