SADC Heads of State and Government say the outbreak of cholera in the region represents a serious threat to sustainable development and the well-being of the people.
There is, therefore, a need for coordinated efforts from member states.
The regional leaders convened a virtual extraordinary summit to discuss the cholera outbreak in some member states.
Namibia's Acting President Nangolo Mbumba, Prime Minister Saara Kuugongelwa-Amadhila, and various Ministers, including the Minister of Health and Social Services, Dr. Kalumbi Shangula, attended the virtual meeting at State House.
The Chairperson of SADC and President of Angola, João Lourenço, said during the opening ceremony that cholera knows no borders and requires a regional approach.
"The public health crisis that affects our region represents a serious threat to sustainable development and the well-being of our people. In this critical moment, we must recognise the urgency of our response and the need for coordinated and efficient action as cholera knows no borders and requires a regional approach to face it."
The summit endorsed, among others, the recommendations of the Ministers of Health to develop and implement multisectoral cholera response plans and strengthen regional collaboration on cross-border outbreaks, risk assessment, and public health surveillance.
They will also jointly plan and implement synchronised cross-border cholera vaccination campaigns.
The meeting also resolved to increase investment in the current cholera emergency and develop and implement climate-resilient water, sanitation, hygiene, and disaster risk reduction programmes to prevent future cholera outbreaks.
"Based on the findings of the ministers of health and also on the report of the Council of Ministers of SADC, which requires a holistic and integrated approach that addresses not only health challenges but also economic, social, environmental, and governance challenges efficiently and sustainably."
The summit designated Zambia's President Hakainde Hichilema as the regional Cholera Champion to spearhead the fight against cholera in the region.
The Africa Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, the World Health Organisation, UNICEF, and the World Food Programme will continue to play a central role in the eradication of cholera.
The water-borne disease claimed the lives of hundreds of people, mainly in Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique.