Africa Recorded World's Fastest Disaster Resilience Gains
Data from a 2025 global poll showed significant improvements in regional disaster preparedness and response capabilities.
Updated on Oct. 13, 2026 in Safety
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In 2025, Africa led the world in disaster resilience improvements, with North Africa reporting a five-point score increase. This finding comes from the World Risk Poll, which surveyed over 143,000 individuals across 140 countries.
Why it matters
The findings highlight how improved internet access and community-based initiatives help regions better manage environmental dangers. However, persistent gaps in warning delivery remain, particularly for mobile phone owners who still do not receive emergency alerts.
The World Risk Poll used a 0 to 100 index scale to measure resilience among 143,000 participants. While societal scores rose to 66 in 2025, individual resilience scores declined from 46 in 2021 to 42.
The players
World Risk Poll
This global survey organization collects data on how people perceive and experience risks related to safety and disasters.
The details
Gains were driven by increased internet access and household preparation, such as community volunteers clearing storm drains in Malawi. Despite these regional successes, only 47% of disaster-affected adults in Central and Western Africa received official warnings.
Timeline
2021: Global societal resilience was 63 points.
2023: Resilience gain tracking began.
January 2025: Malawi volunteers cleared storm drains.
2025: The World Risk Poll was conducted.
2025: Global societal resilience reached 66 points.
Seasonal Patterns
This report updates the resilience figures previously established by the World Risk Poll's Resilience Index. The data contrasts with 2021 baselines to map how disaster response capacity is shifting across diverse global economies.
Residents should ensure their local emergency contact systems are verified, as mobile phone ownership does not guarantee the receipt of critical disaster alerts. Community members are encouraged to participate in local mitigation efforts like clearing drainage areas to reduce flood risks.
The takeaway
Disaster resilience is increasingly driven by a combination of digital connectivity and active community participation in infrastructure maintenance. Individuals can improve their own outcomes by proactively preparing households for emergencies before warnings are issued.
Further reading
For more information on community protection, see the Safety section.
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