Siphakeme .Mnindwa
ADDRESSING the 5th Ordinary Meeting of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Committee of Ministers Responsible for Disaster Risk Management in Victoria Falls, Vice-President Dr Constantino Chiwenga outlined a critical vision for mitigating disasters across Southern Africa.
He emphasised the need for strong regional collaboration, warning that without a unified approach, hunger and destruction could become endemic in the face of escalating environmental crises.
Over the last decade, the region has been battered by an array of devastating natural and human-induced disasters. From recurrent droughts exacerbated by climate change to catastrophic floods and cyclones, these calamities have taken a profound toll on the region’s economy and society, with damages running into billions of dollars. The lingering impact of such events hampers the ability of nations to respond to emerging challenges, leaving many vulnerable communities struggling to rebuild.
Dr Chiwenga’s speech underscores the urgent need for robust disaster preparedness and innovative financing mechanisms. The Vice-President is acutely aware that conventional responses are no longer sufficient; instead, there must be concerted efforts to increase resilience and ensure that future disasters do not cripple the region. In this light, his call for a regional response — fostering collaboration and resource-sharing — is both timely and necessary.
In practical terms, Zimbabwe has made strides with its disaster management strategies, including food distribution, borehole drilling, and the establishment of Village Business Units.
These efforts are complemented by the country’s innovative drought insurance schemes with the African Risk Capacity, which have provided vital financial support during periods of drought. These initiatives demonstrate that, while the task is daunting, collective action can alleviate suffering and provide hope for the future.
However, Dr Chiwenga’s address is also a reminder of the fragility of progress. As the 2023/2024 El Niño-induced drought continues to affect multiple sectors, the situation remains dire. Yet, there is hope on the horizon.
Forecasts of normal to above-normal rainfall for the 2024/2025 season offer the promise of a better summer cropping season. Nevertheless, he cautioned that this could also bring new risks, including floods and cyclones.
The SADC’s development of a Regional Multi-Hazard Contingency Plan for the coming season is a significant step forward. The plan reflects a shared understanding that many of the region’s challenges are transboundary and require joint action.
The devastating impact of Cyclones Idai and Freddy in the past has shown that no country can afford to work in isolation.
Dr Chiwenga’s message is clear: regional solidarity is not just a matter of necessity, but of survival. As the region faces an uncertain future, it is imperative that SADC countries continue to work together, pool resources, and develop sustainable, proactive measures to mitigate the impacts of disasters.
Only through unity and foresight can Southern Africa hope to build resilience against the growing threats of climate change and other hazards.
