AEME Earthquake Response Exercise launches in SA to boost global disaster readiness

The multi-day programme, concluding on Friday, 5 December 2025, aims to strengthen global cooperation and test response systems in the event of large-scale natural disasters.

South Africa's Department of Cooperative Governance Director-General, Mbulelo Tshangana, has highlighted preparedness and partnership as the pillars of effective disaster management and emergency response. Speaking at the official opening of the Africa, Europe, and Middle East (AEME) Earthquake Response Exercise 2025, he emphasised that the primary goal of the initiative is to save lives and protect livelihoods.

This landmark event — held at Nelson Mandela University in Gqeberha, Eastern Cape — marks the first time the AEME earthquake simulation exercise is being hosted on the African continent. The exercise is coordinated by the National Disaster Management Centre (NDMC) in collaboration with the International Search and Rescue Advisory Group (INSARAG).

The multi-day programme, concluding on Friday, 5 December 2025, aims to strengthen global cooperation and test response systems in the event of large-scale natural disasters. The exercise simulates realistic post-earthquake conditions, including collapsed structures, mass-casualty rescue environments, and humanitarian logistics.

Tshangana stressed that global collaboration before, during, and after disasters is critical, especially as climate-related hazards and infrastructure risks increase. He noted that disaster response can no longer depend solely on national systems but must be supported by cross-border coordination and shared resources.

The simulation brings together a diverse network of responders and experts, including:

• Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) Teams

• Emergency Medical Teams (EMTs)

• United Nations Disaster Assessment and Coordination (UNDAC) personnel

• Provincial and municipal emergency units

• Humanitarian partners and fire and rescue agencies

Delegations and teams from Russia, Malaysia, Iceland, Estonia, Poland, Kenya, UAE, and the United Kingdom are participating, further demonstrating the scale and global significance of the exercise.

Tshangana also recognised the presence of INSARAG Global Lead Martijn Viersma, applauding his support in advancing South Africa's disaster-readiness framework.

The event follows the successful G20 Leaders' Summit, during which disaster risk reduction was declared a collective responsibility. Tshangana noted that the timing is critical, as disasters are becoming more frequent, severe, and complex due to climate change, rapid urbanisation, and weakened infrastructure resilience.

He described the exercise as a strategic investment in preparedness, allowing teams to refine systems, test interoperability, and practice decision-making in high-pressure environments. Activities throughout the week include interactive workshops, tabletop simulations, field drills, and the development of a unified operational picture for multi-agency response.

Gqeberha's vulnerability to disasters — especially flooding — makes the location particularly relevant for real-world application and learning.

Tshangana urged participants to use the opportunity to strengthen coordination mechanisms and enhance national and international readiness. "Working together is not optional — it can be the difference between life and death," he said.