SADC Heads of State Convene Virtual Summit to Tackle Cholera Outbreak
In response to the escalating cholera situation in the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region, Heads of State and Government gathered virtually on February 2nd, 2024, for an Extraordinary Summit chaired by the Republic of Angola.
The summit aimed to address the challenges posed by the cholera outbreak and formulate a united regional response.
The virtual gathering was attended by distinguished leaders, including H.E. President João Manuel Gonçalves Lourenço of Angola, H.E. President Dr. Lazarus McCarthy Chakwera of Malawi, H.E. President Filipe Jacinto Nyusi of Mozambique, H.E. President Mr. Hakainde Hichilema of Zambia, H.E. President Dr. Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa of Zimbabwe, and other representatives from SADC member states.
Expressing profound condolences for lives lost due to the cholera outbreak, the Summit received a comprehensive report from the SADC Ministers of Health, endorsing their recommendations.
The leaders urged member states to develop and implement robust cholera response plans, enhancing regional collaboration on outbreak risk assessment, and advocating for synchronized cross-border vaccination campaigns if necessary.
Additionally, the Summit emphasized the need for increased investment in cholera emergency response and sustainable solutions. Climate-resilient water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) programs, along with disaster risk reduction initiatives, were highlighted to prevent future cholera outbreaks.
The leaders underscored the importance of accountability tools for monitoring WASH interventions and the allocation of budgets towards WASH programs.
Commending the International Cooperating Partners – Africa CDC, WHO, UNICEF, and WFP – for their invaluable support, the Summit designated H.E. Mr. Hakainde Hichilema, President of Zambia, as the regional Cholera Champion to lead the fight against cholera in the SADC region.
Acknowledging the initiative taken by the Chairperson of SADC, H.E. Mr. João Manuel Gonçalves Lourenço, President of Angola, the Summit expressed gratitude for convening the Extraordinary Summit.
The leaders pledged their steadfast commitment to ensuring the health and well-being of the people in the SADC region.
