SADC Ministers to Convene in Zimbabwe to Strengthen Disaster Risk Management Strategies
Ministers responsible for Disaster Risk Management (DRM) from the Southern African Development Community (SADC) will gather in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, today to map out strategies for enhancing disaster preparedness and response across the region.
This meeting marks a significant step towards improving the effectiveness of regional disaster management activities, as SADC countries seek collaborative solutions to mitigate the impacts of future crises.
The agenda includes reviewing progress on the implementation of key disaster management programs and exploring modalities for the operationalization of the SADC Humanitarian and Emergency Operations Centre (SHOC).
Additionally, Ministers will assess the ongoing efforts toward the operationalization of the Regional Appeal for Humanitarian Assistance, which was launched in May 2024 by Angola’s President João Manuel Gonçalves Lourenço, the SADC Chairperson. The Appeal addresses the devastating effects of El Niño-induced drought and floods that have affected approximately 58 million people across the region.
Ministers will also deliberate on an Addendum to the Regional Appeal, incorporating new data from vulnerability assessments conducted by additional Member States. These assessments will help to provide a clearer picture of the needs and priorities across SADC, ensuring a more comprehensive approach to disaster response.
The meeting will be officially opened and chaired by Hon. Daniel Garwe, Zimbabwe’s Minister of Local Government and Public Works, in his role as the Chairperson of the Committee of SADC Ministers Responsible for Disaster Risk Management.
Ms. Angèle Makombo N’tumba, the SADC Deputy Executive Secretary for Regional Integration, will represent the SADC Executive Secretary, His Excellency Mr. Elias M. Magosi, during the proceedings.
The gathering follows the Senior Officials meeting, which took place on 25-26 November, where technical discussions and groundwork for the Ministerial meeting were held.
This meeting is part of SADC’s continued commitment to improving disaster risk management systems across the region, with a focus on reducing vulnerability, enhancing regional cooperation, and ensuring effective humanitarian responses in times of crisis.
Source: SADC
