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Disaster Preparedness
29 Jun 2025
Pacific

The Power of Communications in Tonga’s Disaster Preparedness

Mahmood was deployed as an Emergency Preparedness and Communications Specialist to support Tonga’s National Disaster Risk Management Office (NDRMO) and their transition from a reactive to proactive approach to disaster risk management.

Reactive to Proactive

Tonga is one of the most disaster-prone countries in the Pacific, frequently experiencing cyclones, tsunamis, volcanic eruptions, floods, and droughts. The Hunga Tonga–Hunga Ha’apai volcanic eruption and tsunami in January 2022 served as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities and limitations of a reactive disaster response model.

In the aftermath, Tonga accelerated efforts to strengthen its disaster risk governance framework. Guided by the Disaster Risk Management Act 2021 and the National Disaster Risk Management Policy 2023–2030, the country began transitioning from the National Emergency Management Office (NEMO) to a more robust, proactive institution: the National Disaster Risk Management Office (NDRMO).

This shift emphasises integrated risk reduction, preparedness, response, recovery, and long-term resilience — transforming the way Tonga anticipates and manages disaster risks.

Mahmood (right) with NDRMO colleagues planning the phased roll-out of disaster risk management (DRM) decentralisation activities, including the establishment of DRM Committees at island and village levels, and the development of Village DRM Plans. (Image supplied)

Supporting the transition

Mahmood, an Emergency Preparedness and Communication Specialist deployed through Australia Assists, has played an important role in supporting this institutional transformation.

Deployed to the NDRMO since 2022, Mahmood has contributed technical expertise and strategic guidance to help operationalise the DRM Act and Policy. His work includes leading DRM Act sensitisation sessions, supporting the development of standard operating procedures and emergency protocols, and guiding the establishment of systems and tools to implement the policy on the ground.

‘As Tonga transitions from NEMO to NDRMO, my focus has been on strengthening disaster governance at all levels and ensuring communities are informed, engaged, and empowered to reduce risks and prepare for emergencies,’ Mahmood explains.

'As Tonga transitions from NEMO to NDRMO, my focus has been on strengthening disaster governance at all levels and ensuring communities are informed, engaged, and empowered to reduce risks and prepare for emergencies.'

Mahmood
Emergency Preparedness and Communications Specialist

The power of communication

With over two decades of global experience in risk communication and community engagement, Mahmood has developed and led a comprehensive national disaster risk communication strategy for Tonga. This strategy ensures vital early warnings and preparedness messages reach the most vulnerable, using channels that are accessible, trusted, and effective.

‘One of my key responsibilities has been developing targeted communication materials for radio, television, and social media to ensure that communities — especially in outer islands — receive timely and actionable information,’ Mahmood shares.

He has produced a range of locally relevant materials, including a cyclone preparedness guide, drought awareness tools, and an all-hazards pocket brochure. These resources are distributed widely to make disaster preparedness knowledge understandable and accessible to all.

Through press releases, sensitisation sessions, and media engagement, Mahmood has helped raise awareness of community roles in disaster preparedness and foster a national culture of resilience.

Grassroots approach

A major component of Tonga’s DRM reform is decentralisation — ensuring decision-making and preparedness efforts are shared across national, island, and village levels. Mahmood has provided technical support to the phased roll-out of this decentralised model, working directly with local communities to establish Island and Village Disaster Risk Management Committees (IDRMCs and VDRMCs).

He has also supported the planning and conceptualising of Village DRM Committees and Plans, ensuring they reflect local context, traditional knowledge, and practical risk reduction measures.

‘When communities are involved in planning and decision-making, disaster resilience improves,’ Mahmood explains. ‘Local knowledge — such as interpreting ocean behaviour or wind patterns — complements scientific forecasting and strengthens early warning systems.’

His approach integrates culturally appropriate messaging and community ownership, helping ensure the long-term sustainability of village-level disaster preparedness.

 

'When communities are involved in planning and decision-making, disaster resilience improves.'

Mahmood
Emergency Preparedness and Communications Specialist

Strengthening Preparedness and Response Systems

Mahmood has supported NDRMO in enhancing national emergency preparedness and response coordination. He has contributed to the development and review of emergency plans, protocols, and operational coordination mechanisms to improve readiness and institutional response.

During emergencies, he has provided surge capacity support, including initial damage assessments, coordination of response efforts, and preparation of emergency situation reports. He has also led training sessions to build the capacity of NDRMO staff and partners in managing emergencies more effectively, with a strong emphasis on integrating gender, disability, and environmental considerations.

Reflecting on his time in Tonga, Mahmood says: ‘It has been an incredibly rewarding experience to support this national transformation. By embedding disaster risk management at all levels — and empowering communities to lead — Tonga is building a more resilient future.’

Disclaimer: The information and views published here are the individual’s own and do not necessarily represent the partner organisation, Australia Assists or the Australian Government’s views, positions or opinions.

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