VNG International has organized a Comprehensive Change Management and Transformative Leadership Training of Trainers in Disaster Risk Management on August 20 – 22, 2023, for Participants from Hargeisa and Buroa Local Authorities, the Association of Local Governments of Somaliland (ALGASL), the National Disaster Preparedness and Food Reserve (NADFOR), the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, and NAGAAD, an umbrella organization for women’s organizations.

VNG International, in collaboration with the Hague Academy conducted a training program focused on Change Management and Transformative Leadership for Disaster Risk Management (DRM) for key staff of Danwadaag Programme stakeholders. For three days, 20 dedicated Trainers of Trainers (ToTs) participated in this capacity-building initiative.

The participants in this program were carefully selected from diverse backgrounds, representing key DRM stakeholders, such as local authorities, DRM public institutions, and civil society representatives. Among the participants were prominent organizations and bodies including Hargeisa and Buroa Local Authorities, the Association of Local Governments of Somaliland (ALGASL), the National Disaster Preparedness and Food Reserve (NADFOR), the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, and NAGAAD, an umbrella organization uniting women's network organization.

This remarkable DRM capacity-building training was expertly facilitated by the Hague Academy, renowned for its proficiency in delivering high-quality training programs in the field of disaster risk management. The program aimed to equip the ToTs with essential skills, knowledge, and strategies required for effective change management and transformative leadership in the context of DRM.

_“I learned a lot about the different aspects of change management and how to lead effectively through change. I am confident that I can use the skills and knowledge I learned to make a positive impact on my organization,” says Abdihakim, a participant from NADFOR.

Throughout a two-year of serialized training initiative, participants engaged in a comprehensive course designed to enhance their capabilities in DRM. The training involved a wide array of topics, ranging from disaster preparedness and response to the incorporation of leadership and change management considerations into DRM strategies. Additionally, participants were exposed to cutting-edge techniques and tools for fostering leadership and facilitating positive change within their respective organizations and communities.

“I am grateful for the opportunity to participate in this training. I have learned a lot about change management and leadership transformation, and I am confident that I can use this knowledge to make a positive impact in my organization and my life,” says Mohamed, a participant from the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change

VNG International is committed to empowering individuals and institutions to effectively address disaster risks and support resilience. This comprehensive training program exemplifies our dedication to advancing disaster risk management practices by cultivating transformative leadership and change management competencies among key stakeholders. As a result, we anticipate that the participants of this program will play a critical role in fostering disaster resilience, promoting sustainable development, and safeguarding their communities against the challenges posed by disasters and climate change.

Mohamed Dubbe
VNG International
12-Sep-2023