drought and landslides in the Indian Ocean. The increased frequency and intensity of storm events, which may result from climate change, will have profound effects on both the economy and environment of the Seychelles due to its high dependence on tourism. Of particular concern are forest fi res, fl oods, landslides, oil and chemical spills as major potential disasters or threats in Seychelles will have severe environmental consequences, predominantly on the endemic and small species populations of fauna and fl ora and the economy of the country. Following the tropical storm in 2002 that hit Praslin, the second largest island, the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and the United Nations Offi ce for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (UNOCHA) sent recommendations to the government of Seychelles for a comprehensive disaster management strategy. Based on the fi ndings of this report, a National Risk and Disaster Management Secretariat (NRDMS) was created in October 2004 to provide permanent assistance to the National Disaster Committee (NDC). Currently, under the administration of the Ministry of Environment and Energy, the Division of Risk and Disaster Management (DRDM) is assigned the responsibility of identifying the risks facing the population, setting up disaster response systems, developing community awareness and sensitising the public on disaster risk management. One of the main responsibilities of the DRDM is to turn available human knowledge into tailored and informed action to reduce the risk of hazards. Mission To establish and continually review and improve capacities, mechanisms and procedures to enable the optimal reduction of disaster risk and vulnerability in the context of the people of Seychelles, their security, health and socioeconomic wellbeing. Functions �� Provide a strong institutional basis for the implementation of Disaster Risk Reduction at local and national levels. �� Identify, assess and monitor disaster risks and enhance early warning. �� Develop a culture of safety and resilience at all levels through the targeted and effective dissemination of information. �� Reduce underlying risk factors. �� Enable effective response capacities by strengthening disaster preparedness at all levels and sectors. �� Establishment and co-ordination of National Emergency Operation Centre (NEOC). The DRDM combines all its efforts with that of the fi rst key-responder agencies to ensure that the country is prepared to handle expected and unexpected natural hazards threatening the islands. The Seychelles is worth protecting; and its natural environment worth conserving. It is not merely about disaster risk management but the ultimate goal of environmental and ecological protection and preservation. Contact Mr Paul Labaleine, Director-General. Division of Risk and Disaster Management, Global Village Suite No.3, Block Mont Fleuri Mahe, Seychelles Tel: +248 461 1200, +248 467 0470 Fax: +248 461 0131 Email: drdm@gov.sc www.drdm.gov.sc
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