The Durban University of Technology (DUT) Library recently hosted the launch of a significant new publication edited by DUT’s esteemed Professor Zamokuhle Mbandlwa. Titled “Challenges, Strategies, and Resiliency in Disaster and Risk Management,” the book was unveiled at the BM Patel Library at the ML Sultan Campus on Wednesday, 23 April 2025.
The book provides in-depth coverage of key phases of disaster management, including mitigation, preparedness, response, and recovery. By doing so, it serves as a valuable tool for informed decision-making in the field.
It is also designed to cater to a diverse audience, including emergency managers, first responders, and disaster response organisations seeking to enhance their understanding of the complexities of disaster management. Additionally, scholars, researchers, and students specialising in disaster management, risk assessment, and related fields will find the book’s insights and case studies to be particularly valuable.
Librarian: Marketing and Communication at DUT, Mr Romeo Matumba played a pivotal role in moderating the book launch. With his exceptional hosting skills, he kept the attendees captivated and set a positive tone for the gathering.
Dr Malefetjane Phaladi, Director for Library Services, warmly welcomed guests and acknowledged contributors of the book for their dedication to knowledge production.
“One thing that I have noticed when scanning the table of content is that, this is a global book, in a sense that there are a number of contributors of chapters from four continents. For us to continue making a meaningful contribution as scholars, we need to accelerate the pace and the impact of knowledge production in order for us to find solutions,” said Dr Phaladi.
Professor Zamokuhle Mbandlwa, the book’s editor, then delivered a keynote address, expressing gratitude to the library team for supporting his work. He highlighted the significance of disaster management, noting its potential to enhance understanding of climate change issues globally.
Pictured: Attendees at the book launch.
“This book is a highly valuable source for our students. In fact, when I think about the future of this world, two key issues come to mind: the issue of climate change that is intertwined with global warming disaster management and the issue of technology. Studying disaster management is crucial for the global community, especially as climate change intensifies and increases the frequency and severity of natural disasters. Rising global temperatures are contributing to more extreme weather events such as hurricanes, drought, floods and wildfires, which pose significant threats to lives, infrastructure and economy,” explained Prof Mbandlwa.
Among the distinguished guests in attendance were Dr Vuyo Mthethwa, DUT Deputy Vice-Chancellor: People and Operations, Dr Maliga Reddy, Associate Director: Public Management and Economics and a contributing author to the publication; Dr Ramika Bansi, DUT Copyright Specialist.
With this launch, the DUT Library has once again demonstrated its commitment to fostering academic excellence and promoting cutting-edge research. Professor Mbandlwa’s book is set to make a meaningful contribution to the field of disaster and risk management, and its release is eagerly anticipated by both professionals and academics.
Pictured: Professor Zamokuhle Mbandlwa, the book’s editor, delivers his keynote address at the book launch.
Pictured: Attendees at the book launch.
Photographer: S’bonelo Dlamini
Thubelihle Dumakude
