Preparedness in Crisis Management: Mafume’s Call for Better Infrastructure

Jacob Mafume, the mayor of Harare, has emphasized the necessity of robust disaster management systems. He highlighted the economic implications of inadequate response mechanisms during a recent event.

While handing over protective clothing to the Harare City Fire Department, Mafume stressed that the department’s efficiency is critical. He underscored its pivotal role in protecting lives and livelihoods.

He noted that Harare’s capacity to manage disasters defines its status as a capital city. Failure to address emergencies could destabilize both local and national economies.

Paramount Garments, a long-standing business, played host to the event. Mafume acknowledged its contributions, saying its history represents decades of economic and job stability.

He warned that incidents like the fire that destroyed Paramount’s three-story building could erase these gains without swift and effective disaster response systems.

Mafume addressed gaps in emergency resources, pointing out that Harare has received fire tenders from Belarus. However, the city’s size demands more than the six provided.

He proposed dividing Harare into four quadrants—north, east, south, and west. Each area would require fire engines to reduce response times and mitigate potential damages.

The city’s fire department currently serves a radius of 150 kilometers. According to Mafume, this vast area necessitates at least 15 to 20 fire engines to meet growing demands.

Paramount’s finance director, Jeremy Youmans, recounted the lingering challenges following last year’s fire. Their building remains unrepaired, stalled by legal and insurance disputes.

He lamented the prolonged arbitration process, criticizing the reliance on third parties to resolve disputes. This delay has compounded their recovery efforts.

Youmans described frustrations with insurers who have delayed settling claims. He accused them of excessive auditing without offering clear resolutions or credible calculations.

The destruction of Paramount’s building serves as a sobering reminder of the stakes involved. It highlights the vulnerabilities of businesses reliant on functioning disaster management systems.

Mafume’s statements align with broader calls for enhanced urban planning. A city’s ability to safeguard its assets and population reflects its preparedness for both natural and human-made crises.

The Zim Bulletin