The National Office of Disaster Services (NODS) is strengthening Antigua and Barbuda’s disaster response capabilities by training district teams to conduct damage assessments using KoboToolbox.
District Disaster Coordinators and their teams participated in a one-day workshop at the Department of Environment, with technical support provided by the Surveys and Mapping Division.
The training forms part of NODS’ transition from traditional paper-based assessments to a faster and more accurate digital system.
KoboToolbox is a free, open-source platform used to collect, manage and visualise data, particularly during humanitarian emergencies and in remote or resource-limited areas.
Participants took part in practical demonstrations and hands-on exercises designed to teach them how to gather, manage and share disaster-related information digitally.
The workshop also highlighted the critical role timely and reliable information plays in identifying urgent needs, coordinating relief efforts and supporting effective disaster response and recovery.
NODS encouraged the coordinators and their teams to embrace digital technology to improve communication, reporting and coordination during emergencies.
The initiative reflects the agency’s commitment to modernising disaster management, strengthening national preparedness and building greater resilience across Antigua and Barbuda.
I like this move. If NODS can identify the damage faster, then relief can reach people faster too. No point knowing who needs help three days after the emergency.
Going digital sounds good, but the real test is when a major disaster happens. 😕 Make sure the teams have reliable devices, internet and proper backup systems too..
In the age that we live in we must keep abreast with the latest technology and trends