Zim, SA Unite to Tackle Climate Disasters

Zimbabwe and South Africa have vowed to enhance their collaboration on disaster management, uniting against shared climate-induced challenges.

On Thursday, the commitment was announced during a bilateral meeting at the High-Level Policy Dialogue on Resilient Recovery in Kobe, Japan.

Zimbabwe’s Minister of Local Government and Public Works, Hon Daniel Garwe, met with South Africa’s Deputy Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Dr. Namane Masemola, to reinforce their nations’ enduring partnership.

“Our Civil Protection Department and South Africa’s National Disaster Management have built a robust relationship, consistently collaborating to lessen the burden of disasters on our communities,” Hon Garwe said.

He praised the shared early warning systems, particularly the Impact-Based Forecasting initiative, which enables Zimbabwe’s Meteorological Department and South Africa’s Weather Services to exchange vital climate data.

“This program has been a game-changer, empowering our communities to understand and act on weather-related risks,” He said.

Reflecting on past cooperation, Hon Garwe highlighted South Africa’s critical support during Cyclone Idai in 2019, which impacted over 500,000 Zimbabweans.

“South Africa stepped up with food, shelter, and their Search and Rescue team, proving their unwavering solidarity,” he said.

He also acknowledged their aid during the COVID-19 pandemic and the recent El Niño-induced drought, said, “South Africa has been a steadfast ally, helping us navigate these crises with resilience.”

The two countries have also deepened regional ties, notably through the recent SADC Emergency Response Team training, where both seconded personnel.

Hon Garwe expressed optimism about Zimbabwe’s participation in the upcoming G20 Disaster Risk Reduction Working Group in Cape Town.

“We’re eager to learn from global best practices to strengthen our disaster preparedness,” Garwe said.

He congratulated South Africa on its G20 presidency, adding, “Your leadership on the global stage inspires us to aim higher.”

Deputy Minister Masemola echoed the sentiment of unity, describing Zimbabwe as “a brother and a key partner.”

 “We invited Zimbabwe to the G20 Working Group because we believe in working hand-in-hand with our neighbours and the broader African continent. Together, we are stronger, ” Masemola said.

Masemola also extended an invitation to Zimbabwe for South Africa’s upcoming Municipal Indaba.

“We want to deepen our collaboration across all levels to build a more resilient region.”

The Kobe dialogue, hosted by the International Recovery Platform (IRP) under the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015-2030, focuses on “building back better” in post-disaster recovery.

Hon Garwe underscored the urgency.

“Our shared commitment with South Africa ensures our people are better protected from future disasters.”

He is scheduled to address the forum on Friday, outlining Zimbabwe’s vision for resilient recovery.

This renewed partnership not only strengthens bilateral ties but also sets a powerful example of African unity in confronting shared challenges, paving the way for a safer, more resilient future.