The Southern African Development Community (SADC) is addressing climate change impacts and cybersecurity threats through ICT at a meeting in Harare, Zimbabwe. With recent devastating floods affecting member states, discussions will focus on disaster mitigation strategies and the importance of cybersecurity in the region. Reports on various ICT initiatives will also be presented during the meeting.
The Southern African Development Community (SADC) is using Information and Communication Technology (ICT) to address climate change impacts while also tackling cybersecurity threats within the region. These critical issues will be key discussion points at the ongoing SADC Cluster Meeting of Senior Officials taking place in Harare, Zimbabwe.
The ministers responsible for transport, ICT, information, and meteorology from the 16 SADC member countries are convening to address recent concerns. Countries such as Botswana, South Africa, Madagascar, and Zambia have experienced devastating floods recently, highlighting the dire need for measures to prevent disasters linked to climate change, which is included in the SADC Model National Emergency Telecommunications Plan (NETP).
Dr. Beullah Chirume, Permanent Secretary in Zimbabwe’s Ministry of ICT, emphasized the increasing frequency of severe weather-related disasters in the region. She noted the critical role telecoms play in raising awareness and providing timely information. “Zimbabwe is very excited that we have already domesticated the National Emergency Telecommunications Plan ahead of everybody else,” stated Dr. Chirume.
In addition to climate change discussions, cybersecurity also poses a significant challenge in the region. Dr. Chirume pointed out that rampant cybercrime is a pressing issue that falls under the SADC Harmonised Cybersecurity Framework. “As these technologies emerged, especially newer technologies, (they) were susceptible and open to various types of attacks,” she remarked, stressing the need for mitigation strategies.
The cluster meeting will also assess various SADC ICT initiatives, including the NETP, Shared Satellite System, Regional Computer Incident Response Team, and Internet Exchange Points, among others. These reports are aimed at enhancing the overall preparedness and cybersecurity measures across the member states.
The SADC ministers’ meeting underscores the urgent need to address both climate change and cybersecurity threats in Southern Africa. By leveraging ICT, the region aims to mitigate the impacts of climate-related disasters while enhancing cybersecurity frameworks. The collaboration among member states will be crucial in developing effective strategies and solutions to these pressing challenges.
Original Source: itweb.africa
