TPA Watchman

On September 5, 2023, the Republic of Botswana became the 10th Member State of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) to sign the Intergovernmental Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) for the establishment of the SADC Humanitarian and Emergency Operations Centre (SHOC). This brings the MOA closer to becoming operational, as two-thirds of 16 Member States are required to sign for its coming into force.

Situated in Nacala, Nampula Province, Mozambique, the SHOC is responsible for coordinating regional disaster risk preparedness, response, and early recovery efforts to support Member States affected by disasters. It plays a crucial role in managing the supply of equipment and supplies needed by SADC responders during humanitarian deployments.

The SHOC was established as an autonomous, self-accounting organization of SADC, and the purpose of the MoA is to establish SHOC and provide a legal basis for its operationalization. 

Honourable Kabo Morwaeng, Minister of Presidential Affairs, Governance and Public Administration for Botswana, representing the Botswana Government, highlighted the importance of prioritising disaster risk preparedness and response. He underscored that the region was faced with various catastrophic events, including heavy rains, droughts, floods, storms, and mudslides, resulting in loss of life and property damage. The Minister emphasised the need for regional unity and collaboration to enhance disaster preparedness and resilience.

For more information, visit the SADC website on this link: https://www.sadc.int/latest-news/botswana-signs-intergovernmental-memorandum-agreement-establishment-sadc-humanitarian