20 May 2024

The  Executive Secretary of the Southern African Development Community (SADC), Mr Elias Magosi, says  there is an urgent need for a collective action plan to address the ongoing humanitarian crisis caused by the El Nino-induced drought in the region.

Mr Magosi who was addressing the SADC extraordinary summit yesterday, highlighted the devastating effects of the El Nino phenomenon on the livelihoods of millions of people in the SADC region, particularly impacting over 61 million individuals dependent on agriculture. 

He underscored the critical need for immediate intervention to mitigate the impact on vulnerable groups such as children, women, the elderly, and others at risk.

The 2023/24 rainy season has proven to be particularly challenging, with delayed rains, extended mixed seasons, dry spells, and soaring temperatures exacerbating the situation. 

Mr Magosi commended the swift response of regional leaders in convening the summit urgently to address the crisis, acknowledging the gravity of the situation and the necessity for lasting solutions.

Acknowledging the severity of the crisis, Mr Magosi noted that several member states had already declared national states of emergency in response to the El Nino disaster and were seeking international support. 

Additionally, he said countries like Madagascar, Malawi, Zambia, and Zimbabwe reported similar patterns of crop failure and water deficits. 

“All these are signs that climate change remains an existential threat to our region, and that it requires urgent and effective mitigation and adaptation measures,” he said.

Furthermore, Mr Magosi emphasised the need for enhanced vulnerability assessments and intervention measures to alleviate the food insecurity affecting an estimated 56.8 million people in the region. 

He disclosed that the SADC, under the direction of the Chairperson and Angola President, Mr Joao Lourenco, was preparing a regional appeal campaign with the support of partners like the UN World Food Programme and FAO to support the efforts of member states affected by El Nino

Mr Magosi urged the media to effectively communicate the critical humanitarian situation in the region, emphasising the importance of accurate reporting and widespread dissemination of information to garner support for the SADC’s relief efforts. 

He called upon regional media outlets to collaborate and amplify the region’s plea for assistance.

The SADC secretariat and collaborating partners made a commitment to implement decisions made during the meeting, demonstrating a united front in addressing the pressing challenges posed by the El Nino-induced crisis. ENDS