On Wednesday, January 21, 2026, the Rabaul District LLG Induction Program continued with a series of important and insightful presentations from various provincial sectors and stakeholders.
A key highlight of the morning session was the presentation on ‘Leadership in Disaster Risk Management’ by the Provincial Disaster Services, which complemented further discussions led by the Provincial Environment Services Team.
Cornelia Kalimet, the Safety and Mitigation Officer of the Provincial Disaster Services, led the session by emphasizing the critical necessity of local disaster risk management plans.
During her address, she reminded the gathered leaders of their fundamental responsibilities toward their constituents.
“As leaders it is our obligation to understand Disaster Risks Management concepts and look out for our people in ensuring that communities are well informed and coordinated to reduce risks and be prepared to respond accordingly to whatever that may arise,” Kalimet said.
She further noted that as a disaster-prone province, leaders must prioritize building community resilience by weaving disaster strategies directly into their formal plans.
“Identify risks in your communities and report them as soon as possible to relevant authorities.”
“Do not wait for a disaster to happen, act quickly and decisively, see for early warning signs as it can save lives,” Kalimet iterated.
She said that having a Disaster Risk Management Plan is vital as it instils trust between the people and their leaders and added that having leaders that are prepared will build communities to be resilient.
In closing, Kalimet cautioned the participants of the current strong winds and rainy conditions experienced in the province and to take preventive measures in keeping their respective families and communities safe.
Meanwhile, Acting Advisor for the Human Resource Management Ms. Rose August, also stressed on the importance of Ward Minimum Standards; Governance set of standards or machinery for promoting bottom-up planning based on the priorities and needs of communities.
She pointed out that Ward Minimum Standard No.4 includes establishing Community Driven Development Committees.
For this Strategic Result Area (SRA)- Disaster, it is important that wards have their own sub-Committee which is advisory to the Ward Development Committee for disaster preparedness.
