By Mbono Mdluli
MBABANE – Eswatini is set to launch a Centre of Excellence on Drought Management next year, an initiative spearheaded by the National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA). The centre aims to enhance the country’s resilience against drought, minimizing harm to human, animal, and plant life caused by extreme weather conditions.
The development comes as Eswatini continues to grapple with climate change, which has brought about recurring droughts, high temperatures, and unpredictable torrential rainfall. The centre will be established with the support of international organizations, including the World Bank, highlighting the global commitment to combating climate-related disasters.
Speaking on Eswatini TV, NDMA Chief Executive Officer Victor Mahlalela revealed the plans for the centre during Eswatini’s participation in the COP16 Conference of the UN Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on December 14, 2024. He emphasized the centre’s role in early drought detection, enabling timely interventions and safeguarding livelihoods.
“The centre will not only focus on detecting drought situations early but will also provide drought management plans, including tailored strategies for urban areas,” said Mahlalela. He added that composite plans will be developed to manage varying types of drought, ensuring a comprehensive response framework.
During the conference, Mahlalela noted the availability of funding opportunities designed to help African nations mitigate the impacts of global warming, including desertification and drought. This funding will play a key role in supporting Eswatini’s climate adaptation measures.
Climate Change Reality
According to Climate Home News, scientists at the conference issued a stark warning: over the past 30 years, three-quarters of the Earth’s land has become permanently drier due to human activities and climate change. If this trend continues, the world risks widespread food shortages, intensifying wildfires, forced migration, and other catastrophic effects.
The UNCCD Is one of the three key “Rio Conventions” established at the Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro in 1992, alongside the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD). These conventions collectively address pressing environmental and development challenges.
The establishment of the drought management centre represents a critical step for Eswatini in preparing for a future shaped by climate uncertainty. By leveraging international partnerships and funding, the centre is expected to play a pivotal role in safeguarding the nation’s food security, natural resources, and overall socio-economic stability.
As climate change continues to pose significant threats, Eswatini’s proactive approach underscores its commitment to sustainability and disaster preparedness, offering hope for a more resilient future.
