The Second Regional Workshop for the Toolkit on Effective Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear (CBRN) Planning and Response for Policymakers and CBRN Managers took place in Nairobi, Kenya, from April 22nd to 24th, 2024. Organized by the United Nations Interregional Crime and Justice Research Institute (UNICRI) with the support of the United States Department of State (DoS) and in close coordination with the Kenya Nuclear Regulatory Authority, the Government Chemist Department, and the National Disaster Management Unit of Kenya, this three-day event brought together a diverse array of professionals and government representatives from Ethiopia, Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda and other organizations.
Following the inaugural Regional Workshop held in Manila, Philippines, in October 2023, the objective of this gathering was to identify and build consensus on common challenges and best practices, gather insights, and validate the Toolkit to enhance preparedness and response strategies for CBRN incidents.
Approximately 25 representatives from government institutions involved in CBRN risk mitigation and response, spanning countries across the Eastern and Central Africa Region (Ethiopia, Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda), as well as representatives from academic, research institutions, and NGOs operating in Africa, participated in the workshop.
The event also benefited from the expertise of international organizations crucial in responding to CBRN events, including the World Health Organization (WHO), the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), and the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW). Serving as a vital platform for knowledge exchange, the workshop featured a range of insightful presentations, interactive group activities, and engaging discussions.
The workshop focused on several central themes, including response coordination and management during CBRN events, effective communication strategies with the public during such incidents, and international resource mobilization and cooperation in the aftermath of CBRN events. Discussions underscored the critical importance of seamless coordination, clear communication, and international collaboration in ensuring effective CBRN preparedness and response efforts.
