On the sidelines of the International Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction and Resilience in Africa in Maputo, Mozambique, the Deputy Executive Secretary for Corporate Affairs of the Southern African Development Community (SADC), Dr. Judith Kateera met the President of the National Institute for Disaster Risk Management and Reduction (INGD) in Mozambique, Her Excellency Luisa Celma Caetano Meque to discuss matters relating to regional preparedness in particular for the anticipated El Niño phenomenon forecast for the 2026-2027 season.
The meeting focused on strengthening preparedness and response measures to mitigate the potential socio-economic impacts of the expected climate phenomenon. The two discussed the need for strengthening the SADC Humanitarian Emergency Operations Centre (SHOC) through sustainable and innovative resource mobilisation.
Dr. Kateera expressed appreciation to the Government of Mozambique for the support to the SHOC, including the donation of the building that houses the centre and on-going efforts on strengthening the operational capacity of the centre.
In relation to the forecasted El Niño, the SADC Deputy Executive Secretary called for proactive actions to strengthen resilience in the region. In this regard, Dr Kateera highlighted the need to operationalise the SADC Regional Development Fund as a key instrument for supporting disaster preparedness, response, and recovery initiatives.
On her part, the INGD President H.E. Luisa Celma Caetano Meque underscored the importance of community involvement in preparedness and response efforts, noting that local communities are often the first responders during emergencies. She also stressed the need to scale up simulation exercises and preparedness drills to enhance readiness at national and regional levels.
The discussions come as SADC Member States prepare to convene in Johannesburg, South Africa, to consolidate national preparedness plans into comprehensive regional preparedness and response contingency plan for the 2026/27 rainfall and cyclone season.
Source: SADC / Press Release