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ADR2024 Agenda

Tuesday 27 February

Marriott Panama Hotel

OVERVIEW
The Mesoamerica, South America, Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) region faces various natural and man-made disasters, and addressing these challenges requires coordinated efforts from governments, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), and the private sector. A seismically active region, particularly vulnerable to hurricanes and tropical storms, heavy rainfall, significant economic challenges, rapid urbanisation and the growth of informal settlements, requires investment in resilient infrastructure, communities and property, disaster preparedness and planning. It's essential for governments, NGOs, and the private sector to collaborate and adopt a holistic approach to address the unique challenges posed by disasters across the region. This collaboration can lead to more effective and sustainable solutions for disaster relief and resilience – in its 9th year, Action on Disaster Relief (ADR) continues to provide the platform for high-level discussion, networking, and 1-2-1 public-private partnership meetings.

12:00 - 19:00

Pre-event Registration
Participants may complete registration by collecting their delegate pack & event access pass (business card required). Sponsors are asked to setup their exhibition booths from 4pm onwards. The ADR registration desk will remain open all afternoon for those attending the afternoon workshops etc.

13:00 - 16:00

Site Visit - Regional Logistics Centre for Humanitarian Assistance (CLRAH)
ADR2024 participants are invited to visit* the Regional Logistics Centre for Humanitarian Assistance (CLRAH); an initiative of the Government of Panama created to incorporate emergency operations of several actors into one integrated modern logistics facility. The Centre was implemented by UNOPS (opened late 2019), under the direction of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Ministry of Government, in coordination with IFRC, UNHRD (WFP), and SINAPROC Panama who are the facility's primary users. Participants will visit the now-operational Regional Logistics Centre, be shown a presentation on the Centre before visiting the UNHRD, IFRC, and SINAPROC warehouses, and operations center situated at the Panamá Pacífico International Airport. This is a complimentary visit with transportation provided by the Ministry of Government, which will depart (1PM) from and return (4PM) to the Marriott Panama Hotel Lobby.
* sturdy, closed shoes required

Alberto Sierra, Executive Director of CLRAH - Regional Logistics Center for Humanitarian Assistance; Panama

16:30 - 17:15

IFRC Logistics Supplier Workshop
The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) Americas Regional Office will host a dedicated workshop open to all ADR2024 participants looking to find out more about how to become a supplier for the IFRC. Attendees will learn who IFRC are and what they procure and contract. There will be a presentation of their online item catalogue, who is purchasing in the IFRC, their Regional Logistics Units, and the process to become a registered supplier including how to obtain tender documents whilst sharing valuable contact details.

Stefano Riera, Procurement Manager for Americas Region of IFRC - International Federation of Red Cross & Red Crescent Societies

17:30 - 18:15

OCHA Procurement Workshop
The Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) will host a session opened to all ADR2024 participants about the United Nations Global Marketplace (UNGM). The UNGM is self-financed inter-agency initiative and is the official procurement portal of the United Nations System. The portal brings together UN procurement staff and suppliers interested in doing business with the United Nations agencies worldwide. During this session, OCHA will introduce the initial basic steps to be registered and start using the UNGM, with an opportunity for participants to ask questions.

Rogerio Mobilia Silva, Deputy Head of Regional Office for Latin America & the Caribbean (ROLAC) of UNOCHA - Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs

Marie Crespo Ruiz, Procurement of UNOCHA - Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs

19:00 - 21:00

Evening Networking Reception - Lobby Bar
ADR2024 participants may meet at the Marriott Panama Hotel Lobby Bar for an 'ice-breaker' Networking Reception to discuss the two days ahead in a relaxed and informal setting, whilst enjoying a range of canapés and refreshments. Also, an ideal opportunity for Panel Chairs to connect with their fellow panellists.

Wednesday 28 February

Colon Room, Marriott Panama Hotel

8:00 - 8:50

Networking Registration
If not already done so, ADR2024 participants may complete registration by collecting their delegate pack & event access pass whilst networking and enjoying tea & coffee (business card required).
Headsets will also be available for simultaneous English-Spanish translation.

8:50 - 9:10

Opening Ceremony

Andrew Dowell, Managing Director of PNYX

ADR2024 Conference Chair
Rogerio Mobilia Silva, Deputy Head of Regional Office for Latin America & the Caribbean (ROLAC) of UNOCHA - Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs

9:10 - 9:20

Opening Keynote Address

H.E. Juana López Córdoba, Vice Minister of Government

Republic of Panama

9:20 - 10:20

Panel 1: DRR & Preparedness - Partnerships
ADR2024’s opening panel of experts look at the role of local communities in identifying and addressing disaster risks, showcasing successful community-based preparedness programs. Panel one discusses the value of collaborations between government agencies, private companies, and NGOs for effective disaster preparedness, and the private sector’s role in funding and implementing DRR initiatives. Whilst the use of technology such as AI, IoT, and data analytics enhances Early Warning Systems (EWS) and disaster response, challenges remain (including the need for a regional EWS) in adopting technological solutions at the local level – what strategies can be used to build the capacity of local organisations and authorities, and where do local governance structures need to change/adapt? Lastly panellists look at the close link between DRR and the climate change agenda, whilst considering sustainable solutions that address both current vulnerabilities and long-term climate impacts.

Panel Chair: Dr. Meghan E. López, Chief Strategy Officer of Global Support & Development (GSD)

Adherbal De La Rosa, General Director of SINAPROC Panama - National Civil Protection System

Elisa Mariel Trujillo Leyva, General Director of CENACED A.C. Mexico - National Support Center for Epidemiological Contingencies & Disasters

Luis Gamarra Tong, Program Specialist in Disaster Risk Reduction & Recovery of UNDP - UN Development Programme

10:10 - 10:20

Audience Discussion; Question & Answer Session

10:20 - 10:45

Networking Tea & Coffee Break

10:45 - 11:45

Panel 2: Disaster Finance Solutions
Panel 2 looks at the importance of international collaboration in financing disaster relief efforts, fostering collaboration between governments, international organisations, and the private sector to create a diverse and effective financial response, whilst considering innovative financing models that bridge the gap between public and private funding. Panellists also explore strategies for building financial resilience across the region, discussing capacity-building initiatives, financial education programs, and community engagement to enhance preparedness and response capabilities, and solve issues at the source/local level. Panel 2 also looks at the role of financial technology in improving efficiencies, discussing mobile payments, digital wallets, and other fintech solutions that can streamline financial processes during emergencies, whilst considering the importance of data and improving data collection, analysis, for sharing among relevant stakeholders.

Panel Chair: Barry Koperberg, General Manager of HQ, Wings for Aid

Eduardo Gutiérrez, Technical Coordinator of USAID's Bureau for Humanitarian Assistance (BHA)

Kevin Bostick, Director - Exercises & Coalition Affairs (J7/9) of SOUTHCOM - U.S. Southern Command (Dept. of Defense)

Luis Bonilla Ortiz-Arrieta, Economic Affairs Officer of UNDRR - UN Office for Disaster Risk Reduction

Nora Guerten, Anticipatory Action Advisor of WFP - World Food Programme

11:35 - 11:45

Audience Discussion; Question & Answer Session

11:45 - 12:10

Networking Tea & Coffee Break

12:10 - 13:10

Panel 3: Response - Health, WASH & Food Supplies
Concluding day one’s plenary sessions, panel 3 explores ways to create an enabling environment for private enterprises to contribute effectively to health solutions, WASH, and food supplies across the region, discussing potential barriers and solutions, offering successful case studies where public and private sectors have collaborated effectively. Panellists also discuss the role of local communities and NGOs in implementing sustainable WASH solutions, exploring community-based approaches to WASH and food supply management and the impact on long-term resilience. Panel 3 also examines the challenges associated with maintaining food supplies during and after disasters (the value of data), the role of agribusiness, supply chain management, and technology in ensuring timely, equitable and adequate food distribution, whilst considering the disproportionate impact of disasters on vulnerable populations, such as the elderly, children, and people with disabilities.

Panel Chair: Craig Ball, Sales Director of Butyl Products Ltd. & Logistica Humanitaria

Luis Amaya, General Director of DGPC El Salvador - Civil Protection Directorate

Maddy Langemach, Disaster Response Manager of Heart to Heart International

Paulo Nacif, Humanitarian & Emergency Affairs Regional Director of World Vision LAC

Dr. Philippe Dimitri Henrys, Emergency Medical Teams (EMT) Coordinator of Haiti Ministry of Public Health & Population

13:00 - 13:10

Audience Discussion; Question & Answer Session

13:10 - 14:30

Networking Lunch Break

14:30 - 17:00

Disaster Relief Public-Private Sector Matchmaking Meetings
Afternoon session devoted to introductory 15-minute 1-2-1 matchmaking meetings between Government, UN, Disaster Agency and NGO stakeholders, and attending local, regional and global operators. Schedules are prearranged to provide a unique opportunity to discuss disaster reduction, response and relief solutions across the Americas & Caribbean region.

18:30 - 19:00

Event Dinner - Transport
For those that require it, transport is included with an ADR2024 Event Dinner Ticket (please confirm at the on-site PNYX registration desk). Transport will depart from the Marriott Panama Hotel Lobby at 6:30PM for a 7:00PM start, returning back to the Hotel at approx. 10PM.

19:00 - 22:00

Event Dinner - Teatro el Dorado
ADR2024 participants are invited to join us for an informal Event Dinner, to experience the food, ambience and entertainment Panama City has to offer. A relaxed evening of further networking and discussion whilst enjoying refreshments and great food! For more information, please contact a member of the PNYX team.

Thursday 29 February

Colon Room, Marriott Panama Hotel

8:30 - 9:00

Networking Registration
If not already done so, ADR2024 participants may complete registration by collecting their delegate pack & event access pass whilst networking and enjoying tea & coffee (business card required). Headsets will be available again for simultaneous English-Spanish translation.

9:00 - 9:10

Day Two Welcoming Remarks

ADR2024 Conference Chair
Rogerio Mobilia Silva, Deputy Head of Regional Office for Latin America & the Caribbean (ROLAC) of UNOCHA - Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs

9:10 - 9:25

Keynote Address

Manuel Gómez Sánchez, President pro tempore

CEPREDENAC - Coordination Centre for the Prevention of Natural Disasters in Central America

9:25 - 10:25

Panel 4: Resilience Solutions, Shelters & Infrastructure
As the 2nd most disaster-prone region in the world (LAC being the region most effected by climate change), day two of ADR2024 begins with panel 4 examining how governments, private sector entities, and communities can collaborate to develop risk mitigation strategies and integrated disaster resilience plans. Panellists discuss the investment needed and refinement of legal frameworks to facilitate quick and effective engagement whilst balancing regulatory measures with the need for expedited relief efforts during emergencies. Panel 4 also looks at empowering local communities and leveraging community networks for effective communication and resource distribution during disasters, and the importance of regular drills and simulations in enhancing overall resilience. Our experts explore the use of advanced technologies (IoT, AI, drones) to monitor and enhance resilience, incorporating renewable energy sources and smart infrastructure across the region, for example, utilising solar panels to reduce the effects of a disaster for example. Lastly panel 4 discusses the need for shelters that are adaptable to various types of disasters and climate conditions, ensuring inclusivity and accessibility in shelter planning for vulnerable populations.

Panel Chair: Jorge Ortiz, Director of International Sales of Western Shelter Systems

Andres Cruz, Disaster Risk Reduction Program Manager LAC of Habitat for Humanity International

Esteban Maria Chala, National Director of Operations of Argentina Ministry of Security

Jozef Merkx, Representative a.i. UNHCR Multi-Country Office Panama of UNHCR - UN Refugee Agency

Lt Col Keith Maren, Deputy Commander of Joint Task Force-Bravo

10:15 - 10:25

Audience Discussion; Question & Answer Session

10:25 - 10:45

Networking Tea & Coffee Break

10:45 - 11:45

Panel 5: Communications & Security
Panel 5 explores emerging technologies such as satellite communication, drone networks, and IoT devices, and how they can be leveraged for more efficient and secure communication in disaster-stricken areas. Panellists discuss strategies to safeguard sensitive information (and its integrity), protecting individual privacy, plus the ethical implications of collecting and sharing sensitive data during disaster relief operations whilst ensuring the effective flow of information. Panel 5 explores ways to enhance communication interoperability (e.g. standardised protocols etc.) among agencies and organisations, considering the contributions and capabilities of private companies, whilst analysing the regulatory hurdles and policy challenges that may hinder the deployment of effective disaster communication solutions. Our experts look again at the importance of involving local communities to ensure that communication solutions address the needs of diverse populations, the importance of training for effective response, and ultimately, strategies to build resilient communication networks, including redundancy, that can withstand natural disasters and other disruptions.

Panel Chair: Dora Mejia, VP Sales EEM LATAM of Speedcast

Ms Angeles Ayala, Undersecretary of COMTELCA

Brendan Harvey, Executive Director of Help.NGO

Marcelo Montesinos, Regional Director for the O'Higgins Region of SENAPRED Chile - National Service for Disaster Prevention & Response

Rogerio Mobilia Silva, Deputy Head of Regional Office for Latin America & the Caribbean (ROLAC) of UNOCHA - Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs

11:35 - 11:45

Audience Discussion; Question & Answer Session

11:45 - 12:05

Networking Tea & Coffee Break

12:05 - 13:05

Panel 6: Logistics & Technology
Action on Disaster Relief 2024’s plenary sessions conclude with Panel 6 examining strategies to enhance the resilience of supply chains (despite the region’s significant capacity increase due to the CLRAH), involving private companies across the region, and their role in ensuring a continuous flow of essential goods during crises. Panellists discuss emerging technologies such as satellite imaging and AI-driven analytics for quick and accurate assessment of disaster-stricken areas, including the use of drones and UAVs in disaster-affected areas, both for assessing damage and delivering supplies. However, cost and training remain a challenge when adopting new technology – how do we incorporate and plan for this? Our experts analyse the role of mobile applications, SMS services, and other communication technologies in coordinating relief efforts, and the participation of private tech companies in developing and supporting such tools. How do actors combine to create and maintain a regional view of relief items and stock levels? Lastly panel 6 discusses challenges and innovative solutions for the efficient delivery of relief materials to the most affected and remote areas, leveraging big data and analytics for informed decision-making.

Panel Chair: Kendall Sanchez, Go Help Americas Coordinator of DHL

Alberto Sierra, Executive Director of CLRAH - Regional Logistics Center for Humanitarian Assistance; Panama

Francisco Quesada, UNHRD Manager of UNHRD - UN Humanitarian Response Depot / WFP

Gabriela Cifuentes, Supply Chain Regional Head LAC and the Caribbean of Save The Children International

Stephany Murillo, Manager - Logistics Unit of IFRC - International Federation of Red Cross & Red Crescent Societies

12:55 - 13:05

Audience Discussion; Question & Answer Session

13:05 - 13:20

Recognition & Thanks

ADR2024 Conference Chair
Rogerio Mobilia Silva, Deputy Head of Regional Office for Latin America & the Caribbean (ROLAC) of UNOCHA - Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs

Andrew Dowell, Managing Director of PNYX

13:20 - 14:30

Networking Lunch Break

14:30 - 17:00