Nyashadzaishe Rushwaya.
MASVINGO-The Sixth Ordinary Meeting of SADC Ministers Responsible for Disaster Risk Management commenced in Masvingo with senior officials and regional experts gathering to deliberate on strategies aimed at strengthening disaster preparedness and resilience across the region.
The opening session was led by Dr Elias Sithole, Head of the National Disaster Management Centre and Chairperson of Senior Officials Responsible for Disaster Risk Management from South Africa, who underscored the importance of regional cooperation in addressing growing humanitarian and climate-related challenges affecting the region.
Day One of the high-level meeting was held as a closed session, allowing technical experts and senior government officials from SADC member states to engage in detailed discussions on disaster preparedness, early warning systems, food security, climate adaptation, and coordinated emergency response mechanisms.
Representing the Minister of State for Masvingo Provincial Affairs and Devolution was Rosemary Chingwe, who welcomed delegates to the province and reaffirmed Zimbabwe’s commitment to regional collaboration in disaster risk reduction and sustainable development.
In his opening remarks, Dr Sithole emphasized the need for unity and preparedness among SADC nations in the face of increasing climate-induced disasters.
“Disasters know no borders, and as a region we must continue strengthening our cooperation, preparedness, and resilience to safeguard lives, livelihoods, and sustainable development,” said Dr Sithole.
The meeting comes at a time when Southern Africa continues to face recurring droughts, floods, cyclones, and food insecurity challenges largely driven by climate change and economic vulnerabilities.
Over the years, the SADC Disaster Risk Management meetings have become an important regional platform for member states to share experiences, coordinate humanitarian responses, and strengthen disaster management policies. The gatherings have also contributed to the establishment of regional emergency response systems and improved early warning coordination within the block
Delegates attending the meeting are expected to discuss progress made in implementing regional disaster risk reduction frameworks as well as measures to improve preparedness and response capacities among member states.
The conference also expected to produce recommendations that will guide future regional strategies aimed at building resilient communities and reducing the impact of disasters across Southern Africa.
