This rapid literature review synthesises evidence on strengthening systems for national disaster risk management (DRM) and humanitarian response, with a focus on East and Southern Africa. This review looks at countries’ longer-term DRM measures and their immediate humanitarian response during crises. Part of this evidence is on how the national system coordinates with international humanitarian response (actors and interventions), and whether international actors and interventions have helped support the strengthening of national systems. However, the focus of this review is not on the international humanitarian response itself.
The review finds a fragmented and uneven evidence base. Most studies centre on disaster response rather than risk reduction or recovery. There is limited in-depth analysis of approaches attempting to strengthen the sustainability of government DRM systems. Four core themes are identified across the literature: the need for coherent links between DRM and climate resilience; the importance of risk-informed development; the growing relevance of systemic risks; and the role of government leadership in coordinating emergency response. The evidence highlights examples of progress in legislation, coordination mechanisms, financing systems, community-based preparedness, and social protection linkages, although capacity constraints and under-investment remain persistent barriers.