SA to Host Largest Multi-Region Earthquake Response Simulation in 2025 to Strengthen Global Disaster Preparedness

The simulation, scheduled from 1 to 5 December 2025 at Nelson Mandela University in Gqeberha, will place South Africa at the centre of global emergency management training and cooperation.

South Africa is set to host one of the world's largest disaster readiness exercises as the National Disaster Management Centre (NDMC) prepares to welcome international rescue and humanitarian teams for the Africa, Europe, and Middle East (AEME) Earthquake Response Exercise (ERE) 2025.

The simulation, scheduled from 1 to 5 December 2025 at Nelson Mandela University in Gqeberha, will place South Africa at the centre of global emergency management training and cooperation.

The exercise forms part of the International Search and Rescue Advisory Group (INSARAG) global readiness programme, established under United Nations General Assembly Resolution 57/150, which mandates improved coordination and collaboration among international search and rescue teams responding to major disasters, especially in urban settings.

According to the Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA), the 2025 simulation will be the most extensive emergency response exercise ever hosted in the country — involving:

• Provincial, national, and municipal emergency responders

• International Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) teams

• Emergency Medical Teams (EMTs)

• United Nations Disaster Assessment and Coordination (UNDAC) personnel

• Defence, law enforcement, and humanitarian aid organisations

Under the leadership of CoGTA Minister Velenkosini Hlabisa, the exercise marks a major step toward establishing South Africa as a continental hub for disaster preparedness and operational command.

Complex Real-World Disaster Scenario

The simulation will mirror the aftermath of a major earthquake striking a densely populated metropolitan area. The scenario will also include cascading hazards such as:

• Flash floods

• Building collapses

• Hazardous material leaks

• Transport and communication disruptions

• Mass casualties and displacement

The multi-hazard drill will assess how effectively responders can coordinate high-pressure operations, including rescue missions, water rescue, emergency care, logistics, humanitarian aid distribution, evacuation, and shelter coordination.

The exercise will also test South Africa's systems for requesting, processing, and managing international assistance, a crucial requirement under global disaster response standards.

Building Capacity and Strengthening Regional Cooperation

The programme will not only focus on real-time operational deployment but will include:

• Field simulations

• Tactical workshops

• Command-and-control training

• Tabletop exercises

• Technology and communication systems integration

It will also promote the adoption of INSARAG and UNDAC frameworks and enhance interoperability between agencies such as police, defence forces, emergency medical services (EMS), fire and rescue services, and humanitarian organisations.

Hlabisa said hosting the event demonstrates South Africa's growing leadership in disaster resilience and global humanitarian response.

"This exercise strengthens our readiness, sharpens our coordination systems, and positions South Africa as a leader in regional and international emergency response," he added.

Ultimately, the exercise aims to improve preparedness at local, provincial, and national levels while expanding cooperation with Southern African Development Community (SADC) member states and global partners.