Southern Africa’s fight against challenges related to climate change, water management and food security received a major boost after the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Zambezi Watercourse Commission (ZAMCOM) in Harare yesterday.
The initiative also seeks to improve data and information services for water management, supporting infrastructural development for sustainable agriculture, and promoting integrated land and water resources to support food security.
Speaking at the MoU signing ceremony, FAO sub-regional co-ordinator for southern Africa, Patrice Talla Takoukam, said his organisation and ZAMCOM would implement various initiatives that sought to moderate complex challenges facing communities and ecosystems in the region.
“As we embark on this journey together, we are committed to enhancing the resilience of communities and institutions against climatic shocks, improving data and information services for water management, supporting infrastructure development for sustainable agriculture, and promoting integrated land and water resource management to bolster food security,” he said.
“Through joint efforts, FAO and ZAMCOM will implement initiatives that promote sustainable agriculture, enhance water-use efficiency, and build climate resilience in the Zambezi Watercourse Region.
“The focus on the water-energy-food nexus underscores the need for integrated approaches to tackle the complex challenges facing communities and ecosystems.”
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He added: “At the heart of this partnership lies the recognition of the intricate web of connections between water, energy and agro-food systems, known as the water-energy-food nexus. By acknowledging and addressing these interdependencies, we aim to advance the Sustainable Development Goals and contribute to a more sustainable and prosperous future for the region.”
ZAMCOM executive secretary Felix Ngamlagosi said the strategic plan for the Zambezi Watercourse required financial resources amounting to US$29,2 billion for a period of 22 years up to 2040 to fully address the challenges in the watercourse.
Meanwhile, other initiatives expected from the collaborating organisations include capacity-building training of farmers, installation of weather stations and the development of infrastructural projects.