National Multi-Sector Anticipatory Action Framework for Malawi

Overview

Malawi continues to face escalating climate-related disasters such as floods, droughts, and cyclones, which have devastating effects on lives, livelihoods, and infrastructure. These events, exacerbated by climate change, demand a proactive and integrated approach to disaster risk management. To address these challenges, the Department of Disaster Management Affairs (DoDMA), with support from partners, is leading the development of a National Multi-Sector Anticipatory Action Framework.

This framework will enable Malawi to shift from reactive emergency responses to proactive, cost-effective anticipatory actions. By linking early warning systems with pre-approved funding and predefined triggers, the framework will mitigate the impacts of predictable disasters, safeguard vulnerable communities, and strengthen national resilience.

Key Objectives:

• Design a comprehensive, actionable framework for floods and droughts tailored to Malawi’s needs.
• Establish standardized, harmonized trigger mechanisms and early actions for disaster response.
• Align with national policies, regional frameworks, and global commitments like the SDGs, Sendai Framework, and Malawi’s National AA Roadmap.
• Strengthening collaboration among government agencies, NGOs, communities, and development partners to foster resilience and preparedness.

Scope of Work:
The framework will include risk analysis, stakeholder consultation, integration of anticipatory action into disaster risk management systems, and alignment with broader social protection and resilience-building initiatives. It will cover four key components:

1. Impact-based forecasting and trigger models
2. Early actions to protect lives and livelihoods
3. Financing for anticipatory actions
4. Monitoring, evaluation, and learning mechanisms

A desktop simulation exercise will ensure the framework’s effectiveness, providing actionable insights to refine and validate its components.

Deliverables and Timeline:
The framework will be developed over three months, culminating in:

• A detailed inception report with a governance structure and work plan.
• A draft and final AA framework developed in consultation with stakeholders.
• A simulation exercise to test and refine the framework.