By Suleman Chitera
The International Organization for Migration (IOM), in partnership with the Government of Malawi, has launched a four-year Regional Responses to Climate Displacement in Sub-Saharan Africa (RE2CLID) Programme aimed at strengthening resilience against climate-related displacement.African Journalists Urged to Promote Gender in Climate Change Reporting
The programme will be implemented across the Southern Africa and South-West Indian Ocean (SAIO) region, covering Malawi, Mozambique, Madagascar, Comoros, Mauritius, and Seychelles.
Speaking during the launch, Malawi’s Minister of Natural Resources, Patricia Wiskes commended IOM and its partners for introducing the initiative, describing it as a crucial step towards addressing the impacts of climate change and weather-related disasters.
Wiskes said the programme will help communities better prepare for and respond to climate-induced challenges that continue to affect livelihoods and development.
IOM Chief of Mission Fatma Ismail Said said the programme will focus on strengthening early warning systems, disaster preparedness, and community resilience.Standard Bank, World Vision Partners to Combat Climate Change in the country
“We will be warning communities when extreme weather events are approaching, working on evacuation plans, and promoting proper natural resource management so that the impacts of climate shocks are reduced,” she said.
Meanwhile, European Union Ambassador to Malawi, Daniel Aristi Gaztelumendi disclosed that 17 million Euros has been allocated to Malawi to support efforts addressing climate displacement and other climate-related challenges.Faced with Climate Change, Malawi Tests New Farming Strategies to Feed Its People
The RE2CLID Programme is expected to enhance regional cooperation and improve the capacity of vulnerable communities to adapt to the growing threats posed by climate change.