GABORONE- The Committee of SADC Senior Officials Responsible for Disaster Risk Management convened virtually today, 11 November 2026 for a high-level technical meeting to deliberate on regional disaster preparedness priorities and consider key documents ahead of tomorrow’s Meeting of Committee of SADC Ministers Responsible for Disaster Risk Management.
The meeting was chaired and officially opened by Dr. Elias Sithole, Head of the National Disaster Management Centre of the Republic of South Africa and Chairperson of the Committee of SADC Senior Officials Responsible for Disaster Risk Management.
In his opening address, Dr. Sithole underscored the importance of strengthening regional preparedness, risk-informed planning, early warning systems, anticipatory action and the coordination of humanitarian relief supplies.
Dr. Manuel Lutango, Head of Disaster Risk Reduction at the SADC Secretariat, welcomed delegates and highlighted the need for coordinated regional efforts in addressing the growing risks and impacts of disasters.
With the 2026/27 rainfall season forecast to present significant challenges due to strong El Niño conditions, the meeting provides an important platform for strengthening institutional, financial and operational readiness to safeguard lives, and livelihoods and development gains.
The engagement reaffirms SADC’s commitment to regional solidarity, collective preparedness and building resilience across Member States.
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