SADC leaders have launched the SADC Regional Humanitarian Appeal of at least US$5.5 billion to augment the domestic resources of member states affected by the El Niño-induced drought and floods.

The regional bloc's leaders held an extraordinary summit, virtually convened by Angolan President João Lourenço, as SADC chair, on the weather phenomena that have ravaged some member states.

The SADC Regional Humanitarian Appeal also includes efforts for resource mobilisation from national, regional, and international partners in response to the impacts of El Niño-induced droughts and floods.

SADC countries are proactive and strengthen anticipatory action programmes to mitigate climate risks such as the La Niña phenomenon. 

The La Niña phenomenon is projected for the 2024–2025 season.

So far, the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs has pledged US$33 million, while the Food and Agriculture Organisation has pledged US$10 million towards the SADC Regional Humanitarian Appeal.

The extraordinary summit further appealed for additional support from the international community to meet the urgent humanitarian needs of the affected member states and communities.