The Africa, Europe and Middle East Earthquake Response Exercise hosted by South Africa, held at the Nelson Mandela University, drew to a close on Friday.
The event was in partnership with the International Search and Rescue Advisory Group.
It aimed to test the simulation of national and global Urban Search and Rescue capabilities, while improving coordination for major disaster response.
During the exercise, specialised teams tested systems that protect residents during major emergencies — from disaster coordination and search-and-rescue operations, to medical readiness, communication networks, and humanitarian support.
Every scenario was practised to strengthen the Metro’s response.
For residents, this means improved early-warning processes, stronger coordination between government agencies, and a higher level of preparedness across the Metro.
Outcomes are a stronger multi-hazard operational capacity, better regional and international disaster cooperation, clear lessons to guide future disaster response, improved inter-agency interoperability and validated national disaster protocols.
Picture: Supplied