Gauteng teams join earthquake drill

The Gauteng Provincial Disaster Management Centre and the Gauteng Urban Search and Rescue Team (USAR SA 01) will take part in the Africa, Europe and Middle East International Earthquake Simulation Exercise from 1 to 5 December 2025 at Nelson Mandela University in Gqeberha, Eastern Cape. The exercise is organised by the International Search and Rescue Advisory Group (INSARAG) under the United Nations, in partnership with the South African National Disaster Management Centre.

The simulation aims to test and strengthen national and international urban search and rescue capabilities. Teams will participate in high-intensity scenarios that include evacuation procedures, emergency medical support, logistical coordination, post-disaster recovery planning, and humanitarian response management. The controlled environment will closely mirror real-life disasters, giving teams a chance to rehearse their response strategies under pressure.

Tshepo Motlhale, Head of the Gauteng Provincial Disaster Management Centre and Fire Services, emphasised the value of the exercise. “This simulation is an invaluable opportunity for us to collaborate with international partners, share expertise and further refine our operational strategies,” he said. “Our goal is to remain fully prepared to respond effectively to any state of disaster, protecting our communities and saving lives.”

Throughout the week-long exercise, participating teams will rehearse, evaluate, and improve their operational readiness. The drill will bring together multiple agencies, departments, and organisations involved in disaster management to test how they coordinate in high-pressure situations. Officials said the exercise will help improve communication, decision-making, and collaboration between agencies, ensuring a faster and more organised response during real emergencies.

The South African Local Government Association (SALGA) Gauteng welcomed the participation of USAR SA 01, noting that municipalities are often the first responders in disaster situations. SALGA highlighted that the exercise would provide essential training and strengthen local government disaster response mechanisms.

Motlhale also highlighted the importance of learning from the simulation. “This exercise allows us to identify gaps, assess our response systems, and refine standard operating procedures. The lessons learned here will directly enhance Gauteng’s disaster preparedness and response capabilities,” he said.

Officials added that the simulation will help South African teams benchmark their capabilities against international standards, promoting best practices in search and rescue operations. The collaboration with INSARAG and international partners is expected to contribute to capacity building and long-term improvements in disaster management across the country.

The Gauteng Provincial Disaster Management Centre reiterated its commitment to training, readiness, and operational excellence to ensure that the province is fully prepared for any potential disaster. Updates on the exercise and its outcomes will be shared as the simulation progresses.