A Southern African Development Community (SADC) Extra Ordinary Virtual Summit of Heads of State and Government on the Cholera situation in the SADC region has commenced.

President Dr Lazarus Chakwera has joined the virtual Summit from Kamuzu Palace, where he has also been joined by Malawi’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Nancy Tembo; Deputy Minister of Health, Halima Daud and other senior government officials.

In his official opening remarks, SADC Chairperson, João Manuel Gonçalves Lourenço, President of the Republic of Angola said the Cholera outbreak requires urgent regional approach to be dealt with, adding good health remains a human capital, key to achieving regional development aspirations.

He asked SADC Member States to commit themselves in strengthening health systems, come up with solid emergency plans in case of outbreaks, have able human resource, strong early warning systems and surveillance.

The SADC Chairperson added the region needs innovation in the pharmaceutical sector and strengthen technological surveillance in all border posts.

He expressed optimism that unity in the region will help put any outbreak to an end, saying the region has in the recent past dealt with emergencies through collective efforts citing tropical cyclones and COVID 19.

Meanwhile, a closed door session is currently underway. After the closed session, a communique will be read, outlining the outcomes of the meeting.

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