Our Approach
The DRM Authority is transforming the Bahamas’ disaster framework from a reactive response to proactive, whole-of-country and whole-of-society disaster risk management. We are multi-hazard, addressing all natural hazards that threaten our islands—from hurricanes to flooding to wildfires, and beyond.
Grounded in the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency’s Comprehensive Disaster Management (CDM) framework, our approach spans the full disaster cycle—mitigation, preparedness, response, and recovery. It coordinates efforts across all levels of government, the private sector, civil society, and local communities.
We work not just to respond when disasters strike, but to prevent loss before it happens. We coordinate plans, policies, and actions across all islands and sectors—before, during, and after disaster.
Below, explore how we engage at each stage of the disaster cycle.
Mitigate
We reduce risk before it grows. This includes planning at the national, island, and public body levels; improving data systems; and strengthening infrastructure and public awareness. Our goal is to lessen the impact of hazards before they threaten our shores.
Prepare
We ensure people, systems, and resources are ready. This includes the National Disaster Readiness Exercise (NDRX), conducting Regional Disaster Readiness Exercises (RDRX) in the Family Islands, shelter inspections, early warning protocols, and preparedness campaigns across the country.
Respond
When disaster strikes, we coordinate rapid national action across sectors. This centers on activating the National Disaster Emergency Operations Center (NDEOC) where the DRM Authority leads the coordination of government agencies, NGOs, and private partners to ensure a unified national response.
Recover
We lead the transition from emergency response to national recovery. Our focus is on short-term recovery and return to normalcy, preparing for a structured handover to relevant agencies responsible for long-term rehabilitation and reconstruction.
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What is CDM?
Comprehensive Disaster Management (CDM) is the regional model promoted by CDEMA. It addresses all hazards, across all stages of disaster, involving all sectors of society. CDM links risk reduction to national development and calls for the integration of disaster planning into every sector—from education and health to infrastructure, finance, and the environment.
The CDM Country Work Programme
The Country Work Programme (CWP) is a multi-year roadmap that guides how The Bahamas puts CDM into action. Developed with CDEMA, it sets national priorities for disaster risk reduction and resilience-building across sectors. The CWP ensures that our disaster strategies align with global agendas—like the Sendai Framework, Sustainable Development Goals, and climate adaptation targets.
A Whole-of-Society Approach
Disaster resilience depends on shared responsibility. Our whole-of-society approach brings together government, NGOs, businesses, and communities—ensuring coordinated action, local knowledge, and equitable support. We are especially committed to the structured inclusion of civil society and the private sector in all disaster phases.
This commitment is formalised through the Non-Governmental Consultative Council (NGCC).
The Non-Governmental Consultative Council (NGCC)
The NGCC is the DRM Authority’s official advisory body for non-governmental stakeholders. It includes representatives from NGOs, CBOs, FBOs, academic institutions, and private-sector partners. Appointed based on expertise, members serve voluntarily to offer community-informed, evidence-based advice. The NGCC operates through technical subcommittees organised around the disaster cycle and can be activated during emergencies to provide real-time input. It enhances coordination, supports implementation, and ensures diverse voices shape national policy.
