By Yvonne Mutambwa
The SADC Committee of Ministers Responsible for Disaster Management meeting was officially opened by the Vice President of Zimbabwe, Retired General Dr. C.G.D.N Chiwenga, at Elephant Hills in Victoria Falls today.
In his speech, Vice President Chiwenga commended regional Ministers for responding positively to the program’s call. He noted that the region constantly experiences escalating disasters due to climate change and emphasized the need for effective risk reduction methods.
Vice President Chiwenga mentioned that SADC had declared a state of disaster in response to the El Niño-induced drought affecting the region, noting interventions made in Zimbabwe in response to the disaster.
“Notable interventions in Zimbabwe include food drought relief assistance and the Presidential borehole drilling program,”he said.
However, he noted that the current rainfall season began with infrastructure destruction caused by strong winds. Vice President Chiwenga reiterated the need for regional planning and minimizing disaster impacts.
He encouraged member states to fast-track disaster management measures, citing their detrimental effects on regional development.
In addition, the Minister of Local Government and Public Works, who is also the chair of the committee, Hon. Daniel Garwe, acknowledged the increase in natural disasters, including the 2019 floods in Zimbabwe and the 2023 cyclone in Malawi.
He emphasized the devastating impact of the 2023-2024 El Niño-induced drought.
Hon. Richard Moyo, Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution for Matabeleland North Province, commended the ministers for prioritizing risk management and mitigation measures. He called for strengthened response efforts.
SADC Executive Deputy Secretary for Regional Intervention, Ms. Angele Makombo Ntumba, pointed out that disasters claim innocent lives and urged ministers to review progress in regional disaster risk management.
Other attendees included the Deputy Prime Minister of Eswatini, Senator Chief Mtshana Khumalo, and regional ministers, among other delegates.
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