Addis Ababa, April 6, 2026 (FMC) — Ethiopia is preparing to host the 16th conference of the African Risk Capacity, a major continental platform focused on enhancing disaster risk response systems, financing frameworks, and institutional capacity across Africa.
Scheduled for April 8–9 in Addis Ababa, the conference will bring together representatives from 39 African countries. Approximately 300 participants—including ministers, senior government officials, and representatives of international organizations—are expected to attend.
Organized in partnership with the African Risk Capacity Group, the conference will center on strengthening Africa’s ability to anticipate, prevent, and respond to natural disasters, while advancing financial mechanisms and knowledge-sharing systems that support resilience.
During a media briefing, Shiferaw Teklemariam, Commissioner of the Ethiopian Disaster Risk Management Commission, highlighted the growing challenges African countries face in sustaining disaster management systems, particularly amid declining international support and increasing global risks.
He stressed that financial capacity remains a critical determinant of how effectively countries can respond to disasters, underscoring the importance of bolstering financial preparedness alongside institutional frameworks.
The conference is also expected to expand engagement with private sector actors, financial institutions, and insurance providers, while offering a platform for African countries to exchange experiences, technologies, and best practices.
Ethiopia’s selection as host reflects its expanding role in advancing key initiatives such as the Green Legacy Initiative, as well as its efforts in green economic development, food sovereignty, and humanitarian response.
According to the commissioner, participants will also visit major development projects in Addis Ababa, including corridor development works, riverside projects, and other flagship infrastructure initiatives.
For his part, Koffi Konin, Head of Government Services for East and Southern Africa at the African Risk Capacity Group, noted that the conference will prioritize reducing reliance on external assistance by encouraging increased contributions from member states.
He added that strengthening institutional capacity through technology and skilled human resources, alongside promoting coordinated, Africa-led solutions, will be central to the discussions.
The conference is expected to play a key role in enhancing the continent’s resilience to disasters through stronger cooperation, improved financing mechanisms, and reinforced institutional capacity.