From Allafrica · · 1m 20s
SADC Boosts El Niño Prep for Southern Africa
SADC workshop plans early action for El Niño impacts in 2026/2027.
In brief
SADC workshop plans early action for El Niño impacts in 2026/2027. SADC and partners finalize regional disaster plans to address El Niño risks before 2027. Originally reported by Allafrica.
SADC Workshop Opens
SADC launched a four-day disaster preparedness workshop in Johannesburg on Tuesday to address El Niño risks for the 2026/2027 rainfall season.
Workshop Theme
The workshop focuses on 'From Forecast to Consequence: Anticipating the Cascading Impacts of El Niño 2026/27 in Southern Africa'.
SADC Secretariat and Partners
SADC Secretariat, EU's DG ECHO, and RAAWG co-hosted the workshop to improve regional disaster response coordination.
South Africa's Disaster Director
Pumeza Tyali, South Africa's National Disaster Management Centre Director, opened the workshop and stressed inclusive early warning systems.
Key Objectives
Participants will develop the 2026/2027 Regional Contingency Plan and review the SADC Regional Multi-Hazard Anticipatory Action Framework.
RAAWG Challenges
Dr Lewis Hove noted delays in funding, supplies, and response mechanisms hinder effective disaster interventions despite accurate forecasts.
DG ECHO's Role
DG ECHO's Pablo Torrealba urged moving from reactive responses to systematic anticipatory action for multiple hazards.
Workshop Concludes
The workshop ends on 23 October 2026, aiming to create a coordinated regional approach for El Niño preparedness.
The takeaway
SADC and partners finalize regional disaster plans to address El Niño risks before 2027.
