SADC leaders seek U$5,5 billion to fight drought, floods
Written by on May 22, 2024
Southern African Development Community (SADC) heads of state on Monday launched a U$5,5 billion (N$99 billion) humanitarian aid appeal to feed over 60 million people affected by drought and floods.
The appeal was launched during the extraordinary virtual summit of SADC heads of state and government on El Niño induced drought and floods, to mobilise domestic and external resources to aid affected member states.
“The summit noted that an addendum of the SADC regional humanitarian appeal will be in August 2024 to reflect the change in humanitarian needs as more member states finalise their in-depth assessments on the impact of El Niño induced drought and floods,” SADC noted in a statement on its website.
INTERNATIONAL EFFORTS
The Namibian Broadcasting Corporation reported on Tuesday that Namibia’s drought relief food is estimated to cost N$1,2 billion. So far the government has allocated N$825 million and Namibia is appealing to SADC and the international community to augment the shortfall of N$482 million.
Speaking at the World Water Forum in Bali on Monday, agriculture, water and land reform minister Calle Schlettwein said Namibia is facing its worst drought in 100 years.
“This situation is indicative that surface, as well as groundwater resources, will become less reliable. This will have a negative impact on food security, health and hygiene, and overall prosperity,” he said.
Namibia, which relies heavily on shared water sources with its neighbours, is actively pursuing collaborative management strategies.
“The future of our children depends on how we address this imminent water crisis today. We must recognise the important role that women and youth can play in water management and diplomacy efforts,” Schlettwein said.
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