Good day, and happy International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction. This year’s theme, _“Fund resilience, not disasters,”_ reminds us that the smartest investment any nation can make is in preparedness — not in response.
For Antigua and Barbuda, our multi-hazard early warning system, administered through the Antigua and Barbuda Meteorological Service (ABMS), continues to be a critical shield of protection. During **Tropical Storm Jerry** , for example, timely forecasts and warnings helped reduce losses and protect lives. Yet, the very office that provides these life-saving warnings was **flooded out during Jerry** , underscoring the urgent need for a **climate-resilient, purpose-built Meteorological Office** capable of withstanding the full range of hazards we face.
Investing in early warning services like the ABMS yields extraordinary returns. The **World Meteorological Organization (WMO)** , **World Resources Institute** , and the **U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation** report that every **$1 invested in early warning systems can yield returns of $10 to $15** through reduced losses, preserved livelihoods, and enhanced economic stability — far higher than many other adaptation measures. The **Global Commission on Adaptation** estimates a **1:9 cost-benefit ratio** , while the WMO notes that an **$800 million investment** in developing countries could prevent **$3 to $16 billion** in annual losses. In fact, hazards can cause **30% less damage** when there’s even **24 hours’ advance notice**.
So, as we mark this day, let us truly “fund resilience” — by investing not only in people and technology but also in the resilient infrastructure that ensures our nation’s early warning systems can keep saving lives and livelihoods for generations to come.
