BY NELILE NXUMALO (INTERN)
GABORONE – The Southern African Development Community (SADC) and the World Food Programme (WFP) have renewed their partnership through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at improving food security and strengthening resilience across Southern Africa. The agreement was signed on April 28, 2026, in Gaborone, marking a continued commitment to address food insecurity and climate-related challenges affecting the region.
The MoU was signed by SADC Executive Secretary Elias Magosi and WFP Regional Director for Eastern and Southern Africa Eric Perdison. It replaces the previous agreement that expired in 2024 and sets a renewed framework for cooperation between the two organisations.
The partnership focuses on improving food and nutrition security while reducing social and economic vulnerability among communities in SADC member states. It also aims to strengthen the region’s ability to prepare for, respond to, and recover from shocks such as climate change, droughts, and other humanitarian challenges.
Speaking during the signing, Magosi described the agreement as a reaffirmation of a strong and evolving partnership that continues to respond to the needs of the region. He emphasised the importance of collective efforts in addressing food insecurity and building sustainable solutions for communities.
Perdison highlighted that the renewed collaboration will prioritise high-impact interventions designed to reduce vulnerability and enhance preparedness. He noted that strengthening resilience remains key to ensuring that countries in Southern Africa can better manage future shocks and protect livelihoods.
The renewed MoU comes at a time when the region is recovering from climate shocks and ongoing humanitarian pressures, reinforcing a shared commitment to long-term development and stability.
The strengthened partnership is expected to support regional efforts in building a more food-secure, resilient, and sustainable Southern Africa.
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