WINDHOEK, April 11 (Xinhua) -- Southern African Development Community (SADC) chairperson and Namibian President Hage Geingob on Thursday launched the SADC Regional Appeal for Humanitarian Assistance in response to Tropical Cyclone Idai.
Speaking in Namibia's capital city Windhoek, Geingob said the Cyclone had resulted in extensive damage to economic and social infrastructure, which "has immediate, medium-term and long-term consequences."
He stressed the need for collaborative efforts throughout the region.
"The intensity and gravity of the Tropical Cyclone Idai emphasizes the need for collaborative efforts and support from partners to improve our preparedness and enhance the capacity to respond to the negative impacts of climate change and other disasters."
"It is for this reason that I am launching today, SADC Appeal for Humanitarian Assistance to save lives and alleviate human suffering of all the affected communities," said Geingob.
About 800,000 hectares of cropland and crops have been destroyed, further compounding the already drought compromised food security situation in the affected countries. The cyclone damaged road infrastructure and properties thereby impeding provision of assistance to the affected communities.
"Due to the severe and devastating impacts of Tropical Cyclone Idai, about three million people require immediate humanitarian assistance, including food, shelter, clothing, potable water, sanitation and medical support."
"The envisaged assistance will complement national resources and efforts in ensuring early recovery of people in the affected communities who have lost everything, including their socio-economic livelihood." he added.
Geingob explained that affected Member States had indicated that their internal resources were inadequate to comprehensively address the situation.
