Disaster Risk Reduction in Africa Begins with Jobs

Across Africa lies tremendous potential, a growing youth population, a spirit of innovation, and communities determined to build a better future. With the right support, this potential can drive inclusive growth, peace, and resilience far beyond the continent.

However, as the planet grapples with rising insecurity, climate shocks and humanitarian crises, nowhere are these converging challenges felt more acutely than in Africa, where communities stand on the front line of vulnerability.

At the International Labour Organization, we believe that work is not just about livelihoods. It is the foundation of resilience, peace and security. It is how communities rebuild, how displaced people regain dignity, and how countries can avert the next crisis before it begins.

Japan has long recognized this. As a global leader in disaster risk reduction and a valued ILO partner since our founding, Japan has supported investments in decent work that do more than create jobs; they lay the cornerstone for lasting stability.

When people have access to productive and quality employment, they are better able to withstand shocks, support their families, and contribute to peaceful societies. That is why, together with the UN Office for Disaster Risk Reduction, we are bringing this message to the 9th Tokyo International Conference on African Development: building resilience must start with decent work.

In Mozambique, after Cyclones Idai and Kenneth, Japanese support allowed the ILO to rehabilitate critical rural roads and restore a Technical and Vocational Education and Training centre through employment-intensive approaches. The benefits extended far beyond infrastructure; thousands of workdays were created, workers gained income and new skills, and local institutions were strengthened to offer alternative technologies for prevention.

In Madagascar, primary schools rebuilt for communities affected by Cyclone Batsiraï in 2022, became lifelines during this year’s storms. They were the only buildings strong enough to withstand the wind and flooding, proof of the rigorous, employment-intensive construction methods that created both jobs and safety. This is disaster recovery that empowers people.

Unlike short-term fixes, labour-based approaches promote lasting development. They help young people find a future at home. They reduce tensions in fragile communities. And they open the door to social protection, skills training, and inclusive growth, especially for women, youth, persons with disabilities and displaced populations.

We are deeply grateful to the people of Japan for their continued support. Their approach shows that disaster risk reduction is not only about responding to crises. It is about investing in people to ensure prevention and preparedness before the next one strikes.

Now is the time for others to follow this example. We call on the international community to put decent work at the heart of its efforts to support Africa. Not only for recovery, but to unlock the full potential of a continent ready to lead.

Because a job is more than a wage. It is dignity, hope, and the best insurance policy against the next crisis.