Exploring private sector involvement in flood disaster risk reduction in Sudan

Transcription

1 Photo: Dieter Mathes, German Red Cross Exploring private sector involvement in flood disaster risk reduction in Sudan A review of partnership opportunities between the Sudanese private sector and the Sudanese Red Crescent Society Dr. Omer Hayati and Dr. Abed Elbagi Nurain Khartoum, November 2005

2 Table of Contents Part One Introduction...3 Context...3 Flood Disaster Profile in Sudan... 3 Sudanese Red Crescent Society s Involvement in Flood Disaster Risk Reduction... 4 Theoretical framework and overview of actors... 5 Objectives of the study... 6 Methodology... 6 Part Two The Study Findings...7 Background... 7 Coca Cola... 7 Barbary for Transport... 7 Mobitel... 8 Gum Arabic Company... 8 Climax for Drugs... 8 Shell Company Sudan... 8 Private Sector and Socioeconomic Development... 8 Impact of Floods on Activities of Private Companies Private Companies and their role in Flood Disaster Management Cooperation between Private Companies and SRCS Suggestions to Develop a Joint Strategy Part Three Conclusion and Recommendations...15 Conclusion Recommendations Annexes (1) Questionnaire (2) Formal Interview (3) Terms of Reference (4) Fundamental Principles of the International RC/RC Movement

3 Part One Introduction Context Sudan is considered one of the most disaster-prone countries in the world. Over the last twenty years Sudan has experienced natural disasters such as droughts, floods, crop infestation, epidemics, environmental degradation and fires. The hazard profile of Sudan is a consequence of its diverse natural environment and of the conflicts in the Horn of Africa over the last four decades. There are frequent natural disasters but man-made disasters cause people the most suffering. Sudan s internal conflicts have forced large segments of the population to move to other regions within its boundaries and to take refuge in neighboring countries. Sudan is also host to refugees from Ethiopia, Eritrea, Chad and Uganda. Flood disaster profile in Sudan Flood disaster is caused by two different phenomena: localized exceptional heavy rainfall and run-off, and the River Nile system overflowing and carrying higher than usual sediment loads. Floods in both forms are highly unpredictable mainly due to varying frequencies and intensities of rainfall. The River Nile is the main source of flood disaster in the country in terms of magnitude, frequency and damage. Flood damage is concentrated on agriculture along the Nile and includes crop loss, destruction of irrigation infrastructure and loss of and damage to pumps and machinery, houses, schools, and other establishments and sometimes loss of lives. The most severe floods recorded for the River Nile were in 1878, 1946, 1988, 1994, 1996, 1997, 2001 and In 1988, unusually heavy rains in all parts of the country resulted in major flooding especially in settlements along the River Nile. The 1988 flood caused substantial damage to houses, land and agriculture as well as the loss of many lives. In Khartoum alone, an estimated one million houses were reportedly damaged. The 1988 floods caused 10 times more damage than the flood disaster of 1946 considered to be the worst flood in the last century (Abu Sin, 1991). Areas around the River Nile and its tributaries are most susceptible to damage by floods. These include Northern, Nile, Khartoum, Gezira, and Eastern state. Kordofan and Darfur states are most susceptible to flood caused by rainfall. Gash stream is the main source of severe floods outside the River Nile system. Due to heavy rainfall during 2001 and 2003, disastrous floods hit the northern part of the country. Although in recent years flooding has occurred regularly in Sudan, the most recent flood was the worst to affect the country in the last twenty years. Caused by unexpectedly early heavy rains, the flood resulted in large-scale displacement of families, destruction of homes, crops and livestock, mosques and entire villages. In the 2001 flood more than sixty two thousand people in nine states lost their homes. The worst affected states of the country were River Nile state to the north of the capital Khartoum and Sinnar and Gezira states to the south of Khartoum. Although the immediate risk to the population gradually diminished, the situation continued to be hazardous for a long period, with a reported increase in waterborne diseases as well as chest and eye infections. In addition to destroying a large number of buildings, the Gash flood of 2003 in Kassala also destroyed most of the pit latrines of the town. The vast majority of the one hundred thousand flood victims are poor: they live in flimsy housing, their farms and settlements are located in high- 3

4 risk areas, they have limited access to information and their lack of assets puts constraints on the development of effective coping strategies (Hayati, 2003). Sudanese Red Crescent society s involvement in flood disaster risk reduction The Sudanese Red Crescent Society (SRCS) is the largest humanitarian organization in Sudan, having a network of 21 branches all over the country, and over 700 units at provincial and district levels. It has a large volunteer network, with over 250,000 trained volunteers. According to its Strategic Work Plan , disaster preparedness (DP) is one of the core areas of the work of SRCS. Government, international humanitarian NGOs, and local communities have been involved at different levels and in different capacities in disaster preparedness, mitigation, and response and recovery activities. SRCS, in partnership with the ProVention Consortium, is playing a crucial role in flood disaster risk reduction in Sudan. Since 2001 SRCS has benefited from support through the DFID/IFRC Disaster Preparedness Programme for East Africa. The pilot project focused on the development of a SRCS DP policy and plan, the establishment of an information network and capacity building in the flood-prone states of Khartoum and River Nile and the drought-affected states of Red Sea and North Kordofan. In 2003 the ProVention Consortium decided to build on the DFID/IFRC partnership and extend capacity building in disaster risk reduction to the community level. The main objective of the ProVention supported project is to reduce the risk in selected flood prone areas in Sudan through the introduction and development of effective flood preparedness and mitigation measures. Specific project objectives are: To improve the co-ordination and collaboration in the field of (flood) risk reduction and promote the development of partnerships between key stakeholders in Sudan. To strengthen the capacity of local organizations, such as SRCS, in disaster preparedness and micro-mitigation. To increase the awareness of local communities of the risks related to flooding and possible preparedness and mitigation measures to take. National and state capacity building activities focused on the development of a DP training curriculum, the establishment of a country wide and regional working groups on floods and the organization of a national workshop on flood risk reduction involving all major stakeholders in the country. Community level activities were initially limited to Khartoum State and focused on awareness raising and micro-mitigation measures (September 2003 March 2004). A second phase (April December 2005) focuses on community based training on flood risk reduction, community risk mapping and the development of local risk reduction plans in three flood prone areas of the country: Khartoum State, River Nile State and Kassala State. The key focus of the project is on the development and strengthening of partnerships in the field of disaster preparedness and mitigation. Partnership building involved SRCS, IFRC-Sudan and the Nairobi-based regional delegations, national and local government authorities, International NGOs, local civil society organizations (youth and women unions), academic institutions (Khartoum University) and the private sector. Particular efforts are made in this project to actively involve local private sector actors who regularly face commercial losses from floods and are concerned with the safety of their workforce and the protection of their premises. The aim of this study is to determine ways to more effectively protect businesses against the impact of floods through promoting dialogue and partnership between these companies and civil society organizations active in flood risk reduction work, such as SRCS. 4

5 Theoretical framework and overview of actors Development of guidelines and plans to reduce flood risk requires support for the development of capacities to monitor the magnitude, duration, timing and location of flood hazards as well as promoting the assessment and reduction of vulnerability to floods. This involves decision-making on issues such as development and planning control, legislation and land use and environmental management and financing. The development of policies, strategies and plans to combat flood risks should be based on a comprehensive strategy for flood risk assessment. This requires an integrated approach in which a wide range of mitigation measures are considered. Within this overall process, full consideration needs to be given to the social, environmental and economic impacts of policy and programme development. Planning for reduction of flood losses can involve government, at the local, provincial/state and national levels, NGOs, donors, private sector actors and local communities (beneficiaries). The national government develops strategies and policies that ensure a consistent framework wherever they are applied. This can extend to matters such as the installation and maintenance of data networks, design standards for protective works, flood proofing standards, cost sharing arrangements, and incentive and insurance programs (IFRC, 2001). At the national level, the government should take the lead in bringing different stakeholders together, but should delegate the planning of the details and the delivery of the emergency response and preparedness programs to local authorities. The national and provincial/state governments will play a direct role in operating forecasting centers, and will supplement emergency response needs that exceed local capabilities. Higher levels of the government are expected to monitor the enforcement of policy measures by local levels. Effective flood risk reduction will always involve a wide range of actors: different government agencies, NGOs, local communities and the private sector. The private sector has traditionally played an important role in the post-disaster relief and recovery phase. Close coordination among all stakeholders at national and local levels is required to effectively channel the aid being provided, including that offered by the private sector. Also, the formulation of disaster risk management plans must involve all actors, including the private sector. Ensuring adequate representation of the private sector in national, provincial and local level hazard risk management systems is an important step in this direction. In many countries, the private sector contributes significantly to the creation of physical and industrial infrastructure. In association with relevant national agencies, efforts must be made to develop and establish improved techno-legal procedures for disaster-resilient infrastructure. Private sector actors can particularly contribute to building resilient economies, infrastructure and communities through the following disaster risk management activities: hazard and risk assessments awareness generation preparedness training and drills efficient logistics for rescue and relief operations provision of trained engineers, architects and building artisans development and application of cost-effective hazard-resistant technologies involvement in the development of all-hazard warning and monitoring systems development of risk transfer instruments Participation from private companies remained rather limited in the relief and recovery phases of the latest flood disaster in Kassala town (Gash River) in eastern Sudan in Shell participated in the construction of a large number of houses for the flood victims in the Kassala area and Al 5

6 Barbary Company for Transport provided the affected with tents and contributed to the construction of camps and shelter. Although the contribution by local businesses was limited compared to their overall weight in the Sudanese economy, this participation reflects the potential as well as the willingness to contribute more significantly to risk reduction efforts were a joint strategy to be developed between SRCS, the government, and the Sudanese private sector. Through close collaboration with SRCS, the private sector can have the chance to play a key role in guarding against future risks not only in Kassala but in the whole of Sudan. By increasing their investment, the private sector can develop alternative safety nets and create a diverse and resilient economy and society better suited to future weather related disasters. Objectives of the study The overall objective of this document is to: 1. Determine concrete ways to involve private sector business in disaster management related services of the SRCS. 2. Provide an overview of existing linkages/contacts between SRCS/ civil society actors on the one hand and private companies in Sudan on the other hand in the humanitarian field in general and in the field of risk reduction in particular. 3. Document the direct and indirect damage caused by floods to these businesses, their work force and premises. 4. Study the interests in these private companies in increasing collaboration in the field of flood disaster risk reduction and mitigation activities with the SRCS Flood Disaster Risk Reduction Project. 5. Propose elements for a joint strategy between SRCS/ Flood Disaster Risk Reduction Project and private sector actors. Methodology To achieve the above-mentioned objectives the following methodology was used: 1. A comprehensive questionnaire was designed to cover the following issues: background, role in socioeconomic development, flood impacts on company production, disaster mitigation, ways of collaboration, suggestions for a collaboration strategy. (Annex 1) 2. The following private sector companies were selected as case study: Coca Cola, Mobitel, Shell, Barbary for Transport, Gum Arabic, and Climax for drugs. 3. The questionnaire was associated with an in-depth interview sheet carried out by interviewing stakeholders and managers of the above mentioned companies. This sheet developed the contents of the questionnaire. (Annex 2) 4. The document s information has been presented in three chapters. In chapter one an introduction, a flood disaster profile of Sudan, a theoretical framework on flood risk reduction and the research methodology used is given. The research results are presented in chapter two. Chapter three provides the conclusion and some key recommendations. 6

7 Part Two The Study Findings Background Part Two introduces the six companies selected as case studies to implement the idea of partnership between the Sudanese Red Crescent Society (SRCS) and the private sector in flood disaster risk reduction. The presentation of each one of these companies includes: company name, abbreviated name, date of foundation, general objectives, the main founders, the commodities produced, the Headquarters, the branches in the Capital and States, the organizational structure, the main events that the company has faced since its inauguration (Annex 2). Coca Cola DAL FOOD INDUSTRIES is the authorized bottler for the Coca Cola Company in Sudan. It produces soft drinks such as Coca Cola and Fanta in addition to different juices. Dal Foods is a Sudanese owned and operated business. The Dal Group is Sudan's largest and most diversified privately owned group of companies and manufactures many of the country's favorite brand names, such as Capo dairy products and Sayga Flour and is the official distributor of Mitsubishi Motor cars. The Headquarters are located in Khartoum North-Industrial Area. It has branches in the capitals of all the states, such as Port Sudan, Medani, Kosti, Doungula, Atbara, and El Obied. One of the merits of the company is that it has a market research unit concerned with market study and the analysis of the strengths and weaknesses of the company as well as the opportunities and risks which it may face. It has Quality Assurance departments in all branches which work in collaboration with the centre in Khartoum. The most important event in the history of this company is the success in obtaining the ISO 9001:2000 Certificate. For more information please see and select Sudan. Barbary for Transport Barbary for Transport is a pioneering private company which works in the transport sector. The company was founded in It is the only recognized agent for HYUNDAI Company in Sudan, and provides Saloon Autos such as ATOS, SONATA, and Mini-Bus-Van, H100 and Hino Trucks ZY and FB light trucks. It is also the sealed agent for Sudanese GIAD Autos. The company provides an after sale services through a Maintenance and Parts Centre. It is the only agent for Han Book and Dunlop Tires, and Valvoline oil and wax in Sudan. The company also imports building materials and electrical equipment especially from Samsung Company, as well as the majority of Sudan s requirements for printing paper. The company possesses a big fleet of Hino Trucks for transport throughout Sudan, and is also an agent for sea shipping through Port Sudan for export and import purposes. The company s headquarters are located in Khartoum Industrial Area, and it has twenty one branches in the states. Port Sudan branch is the most important one. For more information please see 7

8 Mobitel The Sudanese Mobile Telephone Company (Mobitel) is the first company for mobile phones in Sudan and was founded in The aim of the company is to provide communication services, to achieve economic development and to bridge the isolated areas. It was founded by a group of foreign companies and the Sudanese government. The headquarters of the company are located in Khartoum Mogran, with seventy four branches in all states. For more information please see Gum Arabic Company The Gum Arabic Company LTD (GAC) is the most important company worldwide in the field of Gum Arabic and was founded in 1969 by the government in collaboration with the Producer Unions and individual investors. The aim of the company is to organize the Gum Arabic trade internally and externally, managing the gathering and preparation of the Gum Arabic and its export with high quality specifications. The main office is located in Khartoum with thirteen branches and offices in Gum Arabic belt states. The company is managed by a board composed of the General Manager and four departments, sections and units. The most important event in the history of this company is beginning gum manufacturing in 1994 and the success in obtaining the ISO-9001/2000 Certificate. Climax for Drugs This is one of the pioneer companies in the field of drugs in Sudan. It was founded in 1990 with the aim of producing different drugs types. The main office is located in Khartoum North. The company has no branches outside Khartoum North but its production reaches most areas of the country due to the effective distribution policy and better drugs quality. The company is owned by a number of individuals and managed by an organizational structure composed of professionals, pharmacists, technicians, operating engineers and laborers. Shell Company Sudan The Shell Company Sudan Ltd is one of the most important and oldest companies working in the field of petroleum derivatives. It was founded in The main office in Khartoum is in Abu Elela Building, with branches in all states. The company is well represented throughout Africa and other parts of the world. It produces and markets all petroleum derivatives with good quality and proper safety measures. Shell Sudan has some 50 fuel service stations throughout the country, which cater to the needs of Sudanese motorists by selling both gas oil and benzene. The company is managed by an integrated organizational structure. For more information please see Private sector and socioeconomic development To suit the scope of the study ( provide an overview of existing contacts between SRCS and private companies in the humanitarian field.) the survey investigated the effectiveness of the role of private companies in economic development through provision of job opportunities, the payment of taxes and building of service institutions at the community level: 8

9 Table (1) Role of private companies in economic and social development Name of the The contribution in economic and social development Company Job opportunities Taxes payment Social services support Coca Cola Barbary Mobitel Gum Arabic Climax X Shell X Total Source: Field survey- August 2005 Table (1) highlights the contribution of these companies through job creation and tax payments, and the fact that two third of them have also contributed to community services over the last ten years. Many service institutions were constructed by Coca Cola such as sport and culture premises and support was also provided to cover specific social needs at the community level. The Barbary Transport Company has contributed to the construction of a lecture Hall at the University of the Red Sea and the maintenance of Port Sudan hospital. Mobitel did the same through its contribution in supporting different health and education institutions. The role of Gum Arabic Company in economic and social development is tangible through the Gum research centre and its contribution in building the Faculty of Medicine in West Kordofan University in addition to the digging of Hafirs 1 and wells to provide clean drinking water in Gum Arabic belt states. Table (2) Role of private companies in social and human development Name of the The contribution in social development Company Awareness Student Marriage Funeral Others raising support support support Coca Cola X Barbary X X X Mobitel X X X Gum Arabic Climax X Shell Total Source: Field survey- August 2005 It is clear from the above table that private companies support social development through a wide range of different initiatives: 67% of the companies have awareness programs in the community including environmental sanitation, literacy programs, AIDS prevention, and bad habits prevention. The support is provided either directly through raising awareness of company staff, known as Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP), or indirectly through supporting the institutions concerned with such programs in the community. Three of the companies studied also support students. Coca Cola and Gum Arabic companies focus their support on helping Student Unions in different activities. Recently the Shell Company has begun supporting outstanding students from the Faculty of Engineering, University of Khartoum. The support provided by these companies to students reflects two main points: 1. the desire to assist poor students, especially those from disaster-prone areas, with housing and monthly financial support; and 2. the indirect support to students is generally directed to Student's Groups, Societies, and Unions activities. This indirect support is provided through financial and material support to symposiums, workshops and cultural events. Private companies often see these occasions as free publicity. 1 A hafir is an artificial water reservoir. 9

10 The Gum Arabic, Climax and Shell Companies are actively supporting mass marriage ceremonies financially, whether the couples are staff of these companies or not. Generally, each couple participating in such occasions will be provided with a lump sum of money which corresponds to three or four month s salary as well as two to three pieces of house furniture (beds, closets, cabinets, etc.) The table shows that all companies are providing financial assistances to the staff in case of death, such as providing a lump sum of money or material support (sugar, food items, etc.) to be considered as a company contribution in funeral and condolences expenses. This type of support helps create a healthy and productive work environment by building and enhancing the relationship between the companies and their staff. It was also found that Mobitel and Barbary Transport companies support the handicapped as well as through financial and material support to orphans. In addition to the above, the role of Coca Cola and Shell is obvious in supporting sport clubs and sport competitions. In 1999 Shell organized a football match between Hilal and Mariekh, the profits from which were allocated for the support of handicapped people. The Coca Cola Company has supported the Sudanese Champions League over the last ten years. The role of the private sector companies in direct and indirect socioeconomic development in Sudan shows the obligation of these companies to the taxation system in Sudan and at the same time the social responsibility and religious obligation to Zakat 2 Islamic System (1/40 out of the total of annual profits). Impact of floods on activities of private companies To suit the scope of this study ( identify companies whose activities have been seriously affected by floods over the last ten years and documenting the direct and indirect damage ), the survey investigated the direct and indirect impacts of flood disaster on private companies. With exception of Coca Cola and Mobitel Companies, all companies have been directly affected by floods. Table (3) Flood Impact on Private Companies Name of the Company Impact of floods Direct Indirect Coca Cola X Barbary Mobitel X Gum Arabic Climax Shell Source: field survey- August 2005 The survey shows the direct and indirect impact of floods on private companies (table 4 - table 5). 2 Zakat is the amount of money that every adult and financially able Muslim, male and female, has to pay to support specific categories of needy people 10

11 Table (4) Direct Impact of Floods on Private Companies (last ten years) Name of the Direct impacts of floods Company Building collapse Damages Delaying of Others work Coca Cola X X X X Barbary X X Mobitel X x X X Gum Arabic Climax X Shell X Source: field survey-august The above table shows the direct impact of floods on private companies in Sudan such as building collapse, damage to properties and delaying of work and so on. It was observed that Gum Arabic and Shell companies buildings were severely affected by floods; many buildings of Shell Company in Kassala and Atbara had collapsed over the last few years, and the same has happened to buildings and stores of the Gum Arabic Company in the different production zones. Another direct impact of floods is damage caused by humidity to raw materials and finished products. Humidity-related damage has caused large financial losses to the Gum Arabic, Climax, Shell and Barbary companies. As far as delaying of work and low production is concerned, it was observed that all companies are affected with the exception of Coca Cola and Mobitel. It was found that work was delayed for some days and so consequently the production dropped in Barbary and Shell companies because of washing away and destruction of roads, particularly the Khartoum-Port Sudan road. The survey indicates the effect of floods on Gum Arabic and Climax where distribution and production of commodities lessened. Another direct impact of the floods includes the wetness of the raw and finished products as well as interruption of electricity supplies and electricity shortages. Table (5) Indirect Impact of Floods on Private Companies Name of the Indirect impacts of floods Company low consumption destruction of roads Psychological factors Coca Cola Barbary X Mobitel X X X Gum Arabic X Climax X Shell X Source: field survey-august The above table illustrates that all companies are affected by one or more of the indirect impact of floods which can include low consumption, destruction of roads and the psychological factor on consumers and producers due to affected surroundings and the situation of the victims. It was found that, as a result of a disaster, two thirds of the companies were affected by a drop in consumption. Demand for Coca Cola, Shell and Climax products dropped and the Barbary Transport Company found that there was a drop in demand for the transport of goods. The impact of road damage is clear and around 85% of the companies surveyed (Coca Cola, Barbary, Gum Arabic, Climax, and Shell) were affected. The psychological impact on producers and consumers was mentioned by only two companies, Coca Cola and Gum Arabic. 11

12 Table (6) Perceived Impact of Flood Hazard on Private Companies Company name Impact level High Moderate low Coca Cola X x Barbary X X Mobitel X X Gum Arabic X x Climax X x Shell X x Source: Field survey- August 2005 The above table indicates that the perceived impact of the flood hazard differs from one company to another: flooding is considered as an acute hazard by Gum Arabic Company due to the vulnerability of its production zones, whereas floods are considered as a moderate hazard by Coca Cola, Climax and Shell. Barbary and Mobitel Companies considered flood as a low hazard. Private companies and their role in flood disaster management In order to assess the role of private companies in flood disaster relief, rehabilitation and mitigation the survey investigated the following: Table (7) Contribution and Cooperation with Local Communities in Flood Relief and Rehabilitation Company name The role of the company Relief Rehabilitation Shelter provision Coca Cola X X Barbary Transport X Mobitel X X Gum Arabic X X Climax X X X Shell X X Source: field survey August 2005 The above table reveals that a majority of the private companies (67%) are either directly providing emergency assistance to the affected people or indirectly through supporting humanitarian organizations and agencies. The role of the private companies in rehabilitation is rather limited with the exception of Shell which contributed to the construction of many buildings in the Kassala area. Regarding the provision of shelter to the affected people the only company that has been involved is Barbary in East Sudan through the provision of tents, construction of camps and accommodation of flood disaster victims. 12

13 Table (8) Private Companies and Flood Disaster Mitigation and Preparedness Company Role name Construction Building terraces Training Early Warning System Coca Cola X X X Barbary X X X Mobitel X X X X Gum Arabic X X Climax X X Shell X X X Source: field survey- August 2005 As Table (8) indicates, these companies have a rather limited involvement in flood disaster mitigation and preparedness particularly in the fields of training and early warning (EWS). It was found that three companies (Barbary, Climax, and Gum Arabic) implement disaster mitigation measures by reinforcing and protecting their premises. On the other hand the other three companies (Coca Cola, Gum Arabic and Shell) have built terraces. Shell is the only company concerned with training with specific emphasis placed on fire fighting. None of the companies surveyed had an early warning system despite the fact that this is considered to be an essential component of disaster preparedness and mitigation. In this context, it is also important to identify the perceived role of the government in flood disaster mitigation in view of involving governments more actively in flood loss reduction activities aimed at private companies. Table (9) Perception of Private Companies about the Role of Government in Flood Disaster Mitigation Company name The role of the government ( perception) V. weak Weak Strong V. strong Coca Cola X x Barbary Transport X x Mobitel X X x Gum Arabic X x Climax X x Shell X x Source: field survey- August 2005 All of the companies surveyed perceived the government as currently having either a weak role or a very weak role in flood risk reduction and mitigation. Most of the companies surveyed said that they had the impression that the government only responded after a disaster had occurred. Cooperation between private companies and SRCS To achieve the scope of the study ( to study the interests of the private companies in increasing cooperation with SRCS Flood Disaster Risk Reduction Program ) the survey investigated the following: 13

14 Table (10) Cooperation between SRCS and Private Companies in Flood Disaster Reduction Company name No cooperation Weak cooperation Strong cooperation Coca Cola X X Barbary Transport X X Mobitel X X Gum Arabic X X Climax X X Shell X X Source: field survey- August 2005 Table (10) indicates no cooperation between Barbary, Mobitel, Gum Arabic and Climax companies with SRCS in flood disaster reduction, whereas there is minimal cooperation between Coca Cola and Shell companies with SRCS in first aid training only. The study observed weak cooperation and loose coordination in disaster reduction projects between private companies and organizations including SRCS. Fortunately, it was found that these companies have a strong interest to strengthen their cooperation with SRCS in flood disaster reduction as well as other areas of humanitarian service. Suggestions to develop a joint strategy To achieve the scope of the study (propose elements for a joint strategy between SRCS and private companies ) the survey reveals the following result for each company in turn: Table (11) Proposed elements for a joint strategy between SRCS and Private Companies Company Name Strategy Partnership Type (finance and technical support) Commitment/ Conditions Time frame Coca Cola Barbary Transport Mobitel Gum Arabic Continuation of training of workers. Training of community groups prone to disaster. Shelter provision to affected people. Establishment of Early Warning System. Construction of Hafirs. Construction of health facilities in disaster prone areas. Shared involvement (50%) Whenever disaster occurs Shared involvement (50%) Shared involvement (50%) Preparation of training venue. Financial support. To work in Eastern Sudan. Provision of transport and part of financial cost. Provision of financial support. SRCS to provide qualified cadres. Financial support. SRCS to carry out awareness program and provide qualified cadres Open Open 2006 Climax for Drugs Provision of drugs for flood disaster associated diseases. Training Shared involvement (50%) The company provides venue and transport facilities. SRCS to provide trainers. As soon as possible Shell Training Full involvement (100%) Source: field survey August Establishment of coordination body. Development of plan. Provision of qualified cadres 2006

15 Part Three Conclusion and Recommendations Conclusion The study finds that Coca Cola, Barbary, Gum Arabic, Climax and Shell companies are examples of private companies whose activities have been seriously affected by flood disasters over the last ten years. These companies play a positive role in economic development and in the humanitarian field through their contribution to the provision of job opportunities, payment of taxes, construction of public service institutions, raising community awareness, support for outstanding students, support to marriages and funerals, and the welfare of specific vulnerable groups and handicapped people in the community. These companies are directly or indirectly exposed to flood hazards that threaten and hamper their contribution to social and economic development as well as to humanitarian activities. The threat of flood hazard on these companies is comprised of: collapse of buildings, damage to raw and finished products and commodities, delaying of work, destruction of roads, fall in production and consumption of commodities. Over the last ten years, it was found that when a disaster occurred 67% of the selected companies contributed through emergency assistance, 16% contributed to the rehabilitation of houses and 16% of them provided accommodation and shelter to the disaster-affected population. The study findings reveal that the private sector perceives the government as having a limited role in flood disaster mitigation and there is a lack of coordination between the selected companies and the SRCS in the same field. However, all selected companies assured their interest in strengthening future cooperation with SRCS in flood disaster reduction activities against a clearly developed partnership strategy. Recommendations Therefore, the study recommends the following: 1. The lesson learned from the existing partnership with SRCS and Coca Cola in the field of training should be expanded through signing similar agreements with other partners. 2. Cooperation with the private sector in the field of training should go beyond the provision of first aid training and also cover disaster management, health and sanitation, promotion of community participation and volunteering. 3. Cooperation with the private sector could be effectively promoted by providing training opportunities to company staff in project activities at SRCS headquarters. 4. A comprehensive private sector partnership plan should be developed at a proposed workshop. The vision, policies, strategies, and plans of this workshop should be based on the results of this study. Further input is to be given to the plan by other private sector actors, based on their insights and strategies. 15

16 5. It is proposed that the companies contribute to the above mentioned workshop through technical papers concentrating on their experiences and perspectives on flood risk reduction as well as on their vision on how to strengthen collaboration with SRCS and other humanitarian actors. 6. It is essential that companies participating in the workshop all agree with the outputs of this study and the presented technical papers. There needs to be a strong consensus on the approach needed to develop a joint strategy between private companies and key humanitarian actors in the field of flood disaster risk reduction. 16

17 ANNEX 1 The Sudanese Red Crescent Society Questionnaire on: Partnership for Flood Disaster Risk Reduction between the Private Sector and the Sudanese Red Crescent Society. Questionnaire No. ( ) Position:. First: Preliminary Information 1:1 Company Name:... 1:2 Abbreviated Name:... 1:3 Foundation Date:... 1:4 General Objectives:... 1:5 The main Founders (individuals companies government)... 1:6 Produced Commodities:... 1:7 The Headquarter of the Company (location):... 1:8 The Branches in the Capital and States:... 1:9 Organizational structure of the company (no person names):... 1:10 The most important events since the company was founded: Year Important event/events Second: The role of the company in economic and social development (review 1:4) 2:1 In economic development: a-job opportunities[ ] to be explained... b- Financial returns payment [ ] to be explained... c- Foundation of service utilities [ ] to be mentioned... d- Others [ ] to be mentioned... 17

18 2:2 In social development: a- Awareness [ ], b- Reward of outstanding students [ ] c- Organizing mass marriage [ ], d- Contribution in sadness Occasions [ ] e- Others [ ] to be mentioned... Third: The impact of flood disasters on company activities over the last ten years 3:1 What is the degree of flood impact on your company? a- Direct [ ], b- Indirect [ ], c- Both [ ] 3:2 What are the direct impacts? a- Collapse of buildings [ ], b- Damage of equipments and raw materials [ ] c- Delaying of work [ ], d- Others [ ] to be identified. 3:3 What are the indirect impacts? a- Delay of working day [ ], b- Low consumption of commodities [ ] c- Destruction of transport roads [ ] d- Psychological factors of consumers and producers [ ]. e- Others [ ] to be mentioned... 3:4 Which major disasters occur over the last ten years? Year Volume of material losses and others (in figures) 3:5 What is your evaluation of the impact of flood disasters on your company? a- V. dangerous [ ], b- Dangerous [ ], c- Dangerous to some degree [ ] Fourth: The role of the company in flood disaster relief, rehabilitation and mitigation 4:1 What is the role at the company level? a- Construction of buildings [ ], b- Construction of terraces [ ] c- Training [ ], d- Early Warning System [ ], e- Others [ ] to be mentioned. 4:2 Please give an explanation on what was done (in order from a to e)... 18

19 4:3 What is the role at the community level? a- Compensation of affected citizen [ ], b- Rehabilitation [ ] c- Accommodation [ ], e- Others [ ] to be mentioned :4 Please give an explanation of what was done (in order from a to e... 4:5 What is the commitment at national level / government level (e.g. paying annual fees to the civil defense authorities)? :6 What is your opinion about the degree of governmental authorities concern in disaster risk reduction? a- Very weak [ ], b- Weak [ ], c- Strong [ ], d- Very Strong [ ] Fifth: The relationship between the company and civil community organizations including SRCS: 5:1 Is there any cooperation? a- No cooperation [ ], b- Weak cooperation [ ], c- Strong cooperation [ ] 5:2 What is the main reason for no cooperation (if the answer is a)?... 5:3 Identify the type of cooperation (if answer b or c)... 5:4 Do you agree to cooperate or to develop future cooperation with the SRCS in flood disaster risk reduction? a- Disagree [ ], b- Agree [ ], c- Strongly agree [ ]. 5:5 If you disagree, please state why... Sixth: Suggestions to develop partnership strategy for flood disaster risk reduction in collaboration with SRCS 6:1 Perception ( what is the proposed strategy?... 19

20 6:2 Type of partnership proposed:... 6:3 The prerequisites/conditions:... 6:4 Commitment of your company and of the SRCS:... 6:5 Timeframe for the beginning of partnership:... 20

21 ANNEX 2 Sudanese Red Crescent Society Partnership for Flood Disaster Risk Reduction Formal Interview Company name:... Place of interview:... The name of interviewed person:... Occupation:... FIRST: The role of the company in economic and social development (see questionnaire 2). 1- What is the role of the company in social and economic development? How exactly is the company involved in economic and social development? Why has the company chosen to play this role in economic and social development? Where are these social and economic development activities taking place? Since when has the company been active in economic and social development?... SECOND: The impact of floods on the activities of the company over the last ten years (review the questionnaire 3): 1- What is the degree of impact of flood disasters on the company activities? What are the main reasons for the company activities to be affected by flood disasters over the last ten years? In which locations have the company activities been affected by flood disasters over the last ten years?... 21

22 4- How have the company activities been affected by flood disasters over the last ten years? 5- In which years have the company activities been affected by flood disasters over the last ten years?... THIRD: The role of the company in flood disaster risk reduction (review the questionnaire 4): 1- What is the company role in flood disaster risk reduction? Where exactly has the company been active in flood disaster risk reduction? In which way has the company been active in flood disaster risk reduction? Since when has the company been active in flood disaster risk reduction? Why has the company chosen to be active in flood disaster risk reduction?... FOURTH: The relationship between the company and the civil society organizations including the SRCS and level of interest to cooperate with them: 1- What is the relationship between the company and civil society organizations including the SRCS and what is the level of interest to cooperate further with them? Why has this relationship between the company and the civil society organizations including the SRCS been developed? In which places/sectors has this collaboration between the company and the civil society organizations including the SRCS taken place and where could this be further developed?... 22

23 4- How has this relationship between the company and the civil society organizations including the SRCS been developed and how could this collaboration be strengthened? When did the relationship between the company and the civil society organizations including the SRCS start and what is the timeline for future potential collaboration?... 23

24 ANNEX 3 Sudanese Red Crescent Society (SRCS) and ProVention Consortium Terms of Reference Reducing Flood Risk in Africa: Strengthening community flood resilience through local partnerships in Sudan The Private sector initiative study Introduction In view of involving private companies more closely in flood risk reduction activities in Sudan, a dialogue will be started with local business such as Coca Cola Company, Nile Petroleum, Atbara Cement Factory, on how to protect their work force and premises better against the impact of floods. Study Objectives To determine concrete ways to involve private sector businesses in the DM related services of the SRCS. To conduct a comprehensive study which proposes ways to protect private sector companies in Sudan more effectively against the impact of floods through increased collaboration with civil society actors in the field of flood risk reduction. This study will : Provide an overview of existing linkages/contacts between SRCS/ civil society actors on the one hand and private companies in Sudan on the other hand in the humanitarian field in general and in the field of risk reduction in particular (e.g. Khartoum State Branch with Coca Cola, Nile Petroleum, etc...). To select at least six to eight local businesses (companies) whose activities have been seriously affected by floods over the last ten years. To document the direct and indirect damage caused by floods to these businesses, their work force and premises. To study the interests of these private companies in increasing collaboration in the field of flood disaster risk reduction activities with the SRCS-Flood Disaster Risk Reduction Project or other civil society actor activities in this field. To propose elements for a joint strategy between SRCS and a number of private sector actors on how to reduce commercial losses to floods more effectively. Expected Output/Product A study paper of maximum 20 pages that provides an analysis of the potential and probability of private sector involvement in the work of SRCS. Clear and concise set of recommendations/ activities to be taken by SRCS to engage the private sector. Determine/propose a timeframe to initiate the process. Highlight organization/requirements in terms of human resources for the investments. Timeframe The study is to commence on 15th August and be completed by 15th September SRCS Point of contact: FDRR/ ProVention Coordinator. 24

25 ANNEX 4 Fundamental principles of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement Humanity: The International Cross and Red Crescent movements, born of the desire to bring assistance without discrimination to be wounded on the battlefield, endeavors in its international and national capacity, to prevent and alleviate Human suffering wherever it may be found. Its purpose is to protect life and health and to ensure respect for the human being. It promotes mutual understanding, friendship, cooperation, and lasting peace amongst all people. Impartiality: It makes no discrimination as to nationality, race, religious beliefs, class or political opinions. It endeavors to relief suffering of individuals, being guided solely by their needs, and to give priority to the most urgent cases of distress. Neutrality: In order to continue to enjoy the confidence of all, the Movement may not take sides in hostilities or engage at any tine in controversies of political, racial, religious, or ideological nature. Independence: The Movement is independent. The National Societies, while auxiliaries in the humanitarian services of the governments and subject to the laws of their respective countries, must always maintain their autonomy so that they may be able at all times to act in accordance with the Principles of the Movement. Voluntary Service: It is a voluntary relief movement not prompted in any manner by desires for gain. Unity: There can be only one Red Cross or Red Crescent National Society in any one country. It must be open to all. It must carry on its humanitarian work throughout its territory. Universality: The International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, in which all National Societies have equal status and share equal responsibilities and duties in helping each other, is worldwide. 25