SADC Engages with IFRC Delegation to Enhance Humanitarian Collaboration
Ms. Angéle Makombo N’Tumba, Deputy Executive Secretary responsible for Regional Integration at the Southern African Development Community (SADC), recently met with a delegation from the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) in Gaborone, Botswana.
Led by Mr. Kopano Masilo, Coordinator of IFRC Pretoria Cluster, the delegation discussed strategic partnerships and collaboration in humanitarian efforts.
Ms. Makombo N’Tumba commended the longstanding partnership between SADC and IFRC, highlighting IFRC’s significant contributions in establishing Early Warning Systems and supporting disaster response efforts in the SADC region.
She underscored the region’s vulnerability to climate change-induced disasters, emphasizing the need for joint efforts to address food insecurity, natural hazards, and disease outbreaks.
Mr. Masilo expressed gratitude for SADC’s dedication and collaboration in addressing global threats and risks. He emphasized IFRC’s commitment to providing technical expertise and support in early warning systems, disaster preparedness, and response efforts to mitigate humanitarian crises.
Both parties reaffirmed their commitment to close cooperation outlined in the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) operationalized in June 2021. They agreed to strengthen collaboration in identifying climate-related risks, enhancing community resilience, and building institutional capacities in disaster risk management.
The parties directed their technical teams to review the MoU for possible extension beyond its expiration in June 2024, highlighting the importance of ongoing collaboration to address future challenges effectively.
Accompanying Mr. Masilo were Ms. Naemi Heita, Coordinator of IFRC Maputo Cluster, and Mr. John Roche, Coordinator of IFRC Harare Cluster. This engagement signifies a shared commitment to enhancing humanitarian efforts and building resilience in the SADC region.
Additional source: SADC Secretariat
