Close to 200 delegates from SADC countries and beyond have arrived in Eswatini to participate in the 32nd Southern Africa Regional Climate Outlook Forum (SARCOF-32), hosted at the Hilton Hotel.
The forum was officially opened by the Minister for Tourism and Environmental Affairs, Jane Mkhonta-Simelane, who welcomed participants and highlighted the importance of regional collaboration in addressing climate variability and its impacts on the Southern African region.
“SADC countries face shared challenges related to climate change, including droughts, floods, and other extreme weather events. Forums like SARCOF provide a critical platform for sharing knowledge, strategies, and innovations to enhance resilience across the region,” said Minister Mkhonta-Simelane.
SARCOF-32 brings together meteorologists, policymakers, researchers, and development practitioners to review seasonal climate forecasts, assess climate-related risks, and develop actionable recommendations to support agriculture, water management, disaster preparedness, and sustainable development.
The forum also provides an opportunity for countries to strengthen partnerships, exchange expertise, and implement regional initiatives that mitigate the effects of climate variability on vulnerable communities.
As Eswatini hosts this key regional event, the spotlight is on collective action, knowledge sharing, and proactive planning to ensure that Southern Africa is better prepared to respond to climate challenges now and in the future.
