As disasters across Africa become more frequent and intense, the conversation around disaster risk reduction (DRR) is expanding beyond physical infrastructure and immediate response. There is a growing recognition that the psychological toll of disasters—trauma, anxiety, grief, and stress—requires urgent and systematic attention.
To address this critical gap, Periperi U—the host institute for the IRDR International Centre of Excellence for Risk Education and Learning (IRDR ICoE-REaL)—together with the African Science and Technology Advisory Group on Disaster Risk Reduction (Af-STAG DRR), are pleased to announce the second installment of their joint DRR Webinar Series. This upcoming session is titled "Addressing Mental Health in the Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) Cycle in Africa".
The webinar will explore the intersection of mental health and DRR, advocating for the integration of Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS) into all phases of the disaster cycle—from preparedness and response to recovery and resilience-building.
Despite the clear link between disasters and psychological wellbeing, MHPSS remains insufficiently integrated into many DRR policies, programmes, and response systems across the continent. This event aims to bridge that gap by providing a platform for researchers, policymakers, practitioners, humanitarian actors, and development partners to discuss practical, evidence-based approaches.
Key Discussion Areas
The mental health impacts of disasters.
Strategies for integrating MHPSS into preparedness, response, and recovery.
Identifying and addressing policy and practice gaps in African DRR systems.
Evidence-based recommendations for strengthening community resilience and wellbeing.
Featured Speaker
The webinar will feature a presentation by Dr. Naeem Dalal, a consultant psychiatrist and public health specialist. Dr. Dalal brings extensive experience in mental health, psychosocial support, emergency preparedness, and health systems strengthening. He has provided technical support to national, regional, and international institutions on mental health and resilience programming, making him a leading voice on integrating mental health into disaster risk management.
Event Details
Title: Addressing Mental Health in the Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) Cycle in Africa
Theme: Integrating Mental Health and Psychosocial Support into Disaster Risk Reduction in Africa
Date: 22 October 2026
Time: 14:00–15:30 (GMT+2)
Platform: Microsoft Teams
Participation is open to all interested stakeholders. To join the webinar, please scan the QR code provided in the flyer (click on the image to expand).
We encourage you to share this invitation with your colleagues and networks who are committed to building more resilient and mentally healthy communities in Africa.
About Periperi U
Periperi U is a university network that partners with governments and organisations to strengthen disaster risk reduction and climate change adaptation in Africa through research, education, and capacity development. It serves as the host institute for the IRDR International Centre of Excellence for Risk Education and Learning (IRDR ICoE-REaL).
About Af-STAG DRR
The African Science and Technology Advisory Group on Disaster Risk Reduction (Af-STAG DRR) is dedicated to providing scientific and technical advice to support disaster risk reduction efforts across the African continent.
