21 Jun 2021

The newly-opened SADC Humanitarian and Operations Emergency Centre in Mozambique can only be effective with member states’ full support and cooperation.

This was said by President Dr Mokgweetsi Masisi in his keynote address on the occasion of the centre’s official opening in Nacala yesterday.

He therefore encouraged all member states to submit names of focal points for the  centre’s operationalisation by July 30 as agreed. 

Dr Masisi said the centre, a regional initiative, was aimed at assisting member states affected by natural disasters and other emergencies.

He explained that the main objective for creating it was to coordinate regional preparedness, response to emergencies as well as  humanitarian assistance before, during and after disasters.

“It could not have come at a more appropriate time as the region continues to experience a plethora of disasters, especially those occasioned by climate change. As we know, many of our countries continue to suffer from the devastating impact of recurring disasters across the region,” Dr Masisi said.

The President, who is SADC Organ on Politics, Defence and Security chairperson, cited the devastating effects of tropical cyclone Eloise  on six SADC member states earlier this year and the humanitarian impact of the ongoing Mozambique insurgency.  

He said such disasters caused great disruption to the lives and livelihoods of southern Africans.

They also derailed  SADC member states’ individual and collective efforts towards regional integration and economic prosperity, he said.

“We are confident that the centre will be able to effectively manage regional capabilities including disaster risk funding; technical expertise and equipment; as well as collaboration with national, regional and international cooperating partners,” Dr Masisi said.

He commended Mozambique President Filipe Nyusi and his country for offering to host the centre as well as speedy completion of the project. Ends