SOUTHERN African Development Community (SADC) member states have been urged to strengthen regional cooperation and accelerate infrastructure development to unlock economic growth and deepen regional integration.
This was said by Environment, Climate and Wildlife ministry permanent secretary, Simon Masanga, during the ongoing SADC cluster meeting of senior officials responsible for transport, Information and Communication Technologies (ICT), information and meteorology in Bulawayo.
Masanga said the gathering provided an important platform for member states to assess progress, share experiences and develop coordinated strategies to address common challenges affecting the region.
Masanga noted that efficient transport systems are critical in facilitating trade, improving connectivity and reducing the cost of doing business across the region.
“The SADC region can only realise its full economic potential through stronger cooperation among member states and sustained investment in critical infrastructure.
“Transport networks, meteorological services, ICT systems and information-sharing platforms are all essential pillars of regional integration,” he said.
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He said member states were increasingly recognising the importance of coordinated infrastructure planning to ensure that investments deliver maximum benefits across borders.
On meteorology, he underscored the growing importance of weather and climate information in supporting economic activities and strengthening resilience to climate-related shocks.
Masanga added that stronger regional collaboration in meteorology would improve the sharing of data, early warning systems and forecasting capabilities.
“Climate change continues to present significant challenges to our region. By working together, we can strengthen our forecasting systems, improve preparedness and protect lives, infrastructure and economic assets from the impacts of extreme weather events,” he said.
The SADC cluster meeting brings together senior officials from across the region to review progress in transport, ICT, information and meteorology sectors and to formulate recommendations that will be submitted to ministers for consideration