By: Morrison Wleh
In a proactive effort to enhance disaster preparedness at the grassroots level, the Liberia Red Cross Society (LRCS) Sinoe Chapter today launched a three-day Early Warning Training across six communities in Sinoe County.
Held under the theme “Stronger Communities Through Early Action,” the training brings together community leaders, youth representatives, and local volunteers from Tugbah Town, Pratt Farm, Sargbah Town, Chewlue Town, Funnioh Town, and Geelov Town.
According to local officials, These towns were carefully selected based on their vulnerability to natural hazards such as flooding, fire outbreaks, and other climate-induced risks.
Facilitating the sessions is Maryanne Swope Kpangba, the Regional Coordinator of the Liberia Red Cross Society who is among other things equipping participants with practical knowledge and life-saving strategies to prepare for, respond to, and recover from emergencies.
Over the course of the three days, participants will learn how to map risks in their environments, identify early warning indicators, establish local alert systems, and coordinate with relevant authorities during crises.
Hands-on demonstrations and interactive scenario exercises form part of the training to reinforce key lessons.
The Liberia Red Cross Society Sinoe County Chapter, under the strong leadership of Otis George, Field Officer continues to play a vital role in strengthening community resilience especially in remote and underserved areas.
During the training, Community members welcomed the initiative with open arms while Mamie Kollie, a youth leader from Chewlue Town, shared her thoughts.
Experts say as climate change continues to drive more frequent and severe disasters across Liberia, initiatives like this underscore the critical role of preparedness.
The Liberia Red Cross Society at the same time remains committed to shifting focus from reaction to prevention through community engagement and capacity building.
Meanwhile, The training will conclude on June 19, 2025 as participating towns are expected to establish its own Early Warning Task Force, ensuring sustainability and continued collaboration with the Red Cross network.
