SADC Climate Experts Propose Innovative Financing for Disaster Resilience
These recommendations come as SADC countries grapple with increasing climate-related challenges and seek innovative solutions to build resilience while managing economic pressures.
HARARE, Zimbabwe-- Southern African climate experts have called for innovative financing mechanisms to address climate change and improve disaster resilience across the region, writes Winston Mwale.
At the 4th Regional Dialogue for Non-State Actors on the SADC Regional Indicative Strategic Development Plan 2020-2030, Justice Zvaita from the Southern Africa Climate Change Coalition presented several key proposals.
"A debt-for-climate-action swap mechanism could provide debt relief in exchange for commitments to implement climate-related policies and projects," Zvaita said.
This approach aims to alleviate the debt burden while mobilizing resources for critical climate action in SADC countries.
Zvaita also advocated for a regional climate adaptation and resilience fund.
"SADC countries are highly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change," he explained.
"A dedicated regional fund would mobilize resources to support adaptation efforts and build resilience in communities across the SADC region."
The proposal includes creating a rapid financing mechanism for disaster response and recovery. "This would help mitigate the impact of natural disasters and reduce the burden on national budgets," Zvaita stated.
Emphasizing the importance of local knowledge, Zvaita recommended integrating Indigenous Knowledge Systems (IKS) into disaster risk reduction strategies.
"We must incorporate traditional knowledge and practices related to early warning systems, sustainable land management, and community-based disaster response into national and regional disaster risk management plans," he said.
The proposals also highlight the need to involve young people, especially young women, in all planning phases of climate adaptation and disaster response initiatives.
Zvaita called for strengthened regional coordination, suggesting "a regional disaster risk management coordination mechanism to facilitate the sharing of best practices, joint trainings, and cross-border cooperation."
These recommendations come as SADC countries grapple with increasing climate-related challenges and seek innovative solutions to build resilience while managing economic pressures.