SADC on collaboration for disaster preparedness and resilience

Nqobile Bhebhe [email protected]
The Southern African Development Community (SADC) has stressed the importance of sustained collaboration among regional and national institutions to enhance disaster preparedness and resilience.
The bloc has highlighted the need for continuous seasonal monitoring and impact-based advisories to shape adaptive strategies in agriculture and livelihoods across the region.
In its latest Agrometeorological (Agromet) update, SADC noted that ongoing variability in rainfall and temperature, coupled with challenges in the 2024/25 agricultural season, calls for regular updates to seasonal and sub-seasonal forecasts.
These updates, including impact-based forecasts, should be widely disseminated to support planning and decision-making at all levels.
“Leveraging localised and downscaled national forecasts is essential to ensure that farmers receive timely and actionable information,” SADC stated. “Early warnings on potential dry spells, intense rainfall, heatwaves, and tropical cyclone activity should be emphasized to help communities adapt and prepare,” said SADC.
To address erratic rainfall patterns, SADC has urged member states to focus on water harvesting and improving irrigation infrastructure. Climate-smart agricultural practices such as using drought-tolerant crop varieties, intercropping, and mulching should also be promoted to optimise water use and enhance resilience.
Zimbabwe has already implemented the Intwasa/Pfumvudza programme under the Second Republic to tackle low agricultural productivity. This intensive small-scale conservation farming model ensures that the right crop varieties are planted to suit specific climatic conditions, enhancing productivity even in adverse weather.
“In areas expected to receive heavy rainfall, preparations to prevent waterlogging, including field drainage improvements, will be essential to minimise crop losses. Livestock-dependent regions require urgent support as poor grazing conditions and water shortages persist in several areas. Supplementary feeding programs, expanded access to water points, and improved herd management strategies should be prioritised to protect livestock health and productivity,” said SADC.
Regions anticipating improved rainfall in the coming months are encouraged to prioritize fodder crop production and preservation to build reserves for future dry periods. Enhanced disease surveillance will also be vital to manage the increased risk of livestock diseases linked to high temperatures and changing rainfall patterns.
The report also underscored the critical need for climate-resilient energy strategies. The challenges faced by the Kariba and Cahora Bassa dams highlight the urgency of diversifying energy sources and investing in renewable energy solutions such as solar and wind power to reduce reliance on hydropower.
Public health systems must remain vigilant, particularly in areas affected by climate-sensitive diseases like cholera. Improved access to clean water, sanitation, and hygiene education is essential to curb disease outbreaks, especially in regions prone to flooding or experiencing water shortages.
“Public health systems must also remain vigilant, particularly in areas affected by cholera outbreaks and other climate-sensitive diseases. Improved access to clean water, sanitation, and hygiene education will be vital in reducing disease spread, particularly in areas prone to flooding or experiencing water shortages,” said SADC.

You Might Also Like

Comments