Presidents of Mozambique and Botswana Visit SADC Humanitarian and Emergency Operations Centre in Nacala
His Excellency President Daniel Francisco Chapo of Mozambique and His Excellency President Advocate Duma Boko of Botswana visited the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Humanitarian and Emergency Operations Centre (SHOC) in Nacala, Mozambique, on March 28, 2025. Their visit emphasizes SADC’s commitment to strengthening regional resilience against escalating disaster risks.
The SHOC, a state-of-the-art facility dedicated to disaster response and coordination, serves as a critical hub for real-time information sharing and crisis management across SADC member states. Equipped with advanced technology, the centre enhances rapid response capabilities, ensuring a proactive approach to disaster mitigation and humanitarian assistance.
During their visit, Presidents Chapo and Boko toured the SHOC’s cutting-edge Situation Room, a pioneering facility within the region designed to facilitate immediate and effective emergency responses. This visit aligns with the commitment made by both leaders upon their recent inaugurations, reaffirming their dedication to bolstering regional disaster preparedness efforts.
A key focus of discussions centered on aligning SHOC’s operations with the United Nations’ “Early Warnings for All” initiative, emphasizing the importance of timely disaster preparedness and risk reduction measures. The leaders highlighted the need for enhanced early warning systems to safeguard lives and livelihoods across SADC member states.
The SHOC’s establishment, initiated in June 2021 by the leaders’ predecessors, represents a continued dedication to fostering a resilient Southern African region. The centre exemplifies regional cooperation in addressing humanitarian challenges, ensuring collective security and sustainable development.
The SADC Secretariat expressed gratitude to the European Union for its generous financial support in establishing the SHOC. Appreciation was also extended to implementing partners, including the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR), and the CIMA Research Foundation, for their invaluable contributions.
As climate-related disasters and other emergencies increasingly impact the region, SADC remains steadfast in its commitment to building a more resilient future. The SHOC stands as a beacon of regional cooperation, preparedness, and hope in addressing humanitarian challenges head-on.
