Manzini – Twenty-eight young people from 14 units of the Eswatini Red Cross Society Manzini Branch are undergoing disaster risk reduction training this week at the branch headquarters.
The two-day programme, which concludes today, is facilitated by experts from the Baphalali Eswatini Red Cross Society (BERCS), the National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA) and Eswatini Fire and Emergency Services.
Eswatini Red Cross Secretary General Danger Nhlabatsi addressed the participants yesterday, commending them for their commitment. He noted that the skills gained will not only serve their personal safety but also strengthen their role as first responders in their communities. 
Nhlabatsi said the unusual disasters recorded during winter signalled the growing effects of climate change, stressing that the training prepares youth to act as agents of the movement and extend lifesaving knowledge to others. He also expressed gratitude to the NDMA and Fire Services for contributing their expertise.
During the sessions, participants engaged actively in discussions, with food insecurity emerging as a major concern. Wandile Nhleko, from Lesibovu under Mtfongwaneni Constituency, said young people now realise the need to adopt new practices to address hunger challenges in their communities.
The training covered fire management and the importance of knowledgeable first responders. Fire Services officer Mandla Dlamini explained that basic firefighting skills in communities help reduce the impact of incidents significantly.
NDMA’s Khethokwakhe Lukhele outlined the agency’s role in coordinating disaster response nationally, while commending the youth for their active involvement.
Manzini Branch Chairperson Zweli Mlotsa encouraged the participants to take the lessons seriously, saying government depends on the National Society for timely response when disaster strikes. He added that the skills gained could also open opportunities for the youth beyond the country’s borders.
