AYV News, November 11, 2026
Sierra Leone’s National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA) is set to strengthen its disaster surveillance and emergency response operations with a specialised drone donated by Russia’s Ministry of Emergency Situations (EMERCOM) under a new cooperation agreement signed between the two countries on the margins of the International Conference on Strengthening Search and Rescue Services in the African Region, held from 3-6 November in Kenya.
The technology is expected to enhance the NDMA’s ability to monitor emerging threats, assess disaster impacts and provide timely information during emergencies.
The agreement will also provide NDMA personnel and other emergency management institutions with access to specialised professional training, scholarships and fellowships, particularly in satellite technology, remote sensing, Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and drone operations.
Beyond the drone donation and training opportunities, the partnership establishes a framework for technical cooperation and knowledge exchange in several areas, including search and rescue, urban search and rescue, disaster risk reduction, early warning systems, firefighting, emergency medical response, water rescue and humanitarian assistance.
It will also support technology transfer, research, stronger emergency coordination mechanisms and improvements in incident management and humanitarian response systems.
NDMA Director General John Vandy Rogers said the agreement would help strengthen the Agency’s institutional and operational capabilities through access to international expertise, technology and specialised training.
He described the partnership as an important step towards building a more resilient disaster management system, improving the country’s ability to anticipate disaster risks, coordinate timely interventions and protect lives, livelihoods and property across Sierra Leone.
