31/07/2026
Malawi Underscores Readiness for 2026/27 El Niño at AU Ministerial Dialogue
The Minister of Agriculture, Irrigation and Water Development, Honourable Roza Fatch Mbilizi, has said Malawi is enhancing its readiness to respond to the expected 2026/27 El Niño.
She made the remarks while presenting Malawi’s preparedness at the African Union (AU) Ministerial Dialogue during the AU Extraordinary Session on Africa's response to the El Niño phenomenon.
Speaking virtually, the Minister explained that Malawi has developed a National El Niño Preparedness Plan to bring together different sectors in strengthening early warning systems, anticipatory action, safeguarding food and nutrition security, and supporting vulnerable households. The plan provides a framework for coordinated action across government and partners.
Oversight of the plan will be provided by an Ad Hoc Cabinet Committee on El Niño Preparedness, appointed by President Arthur Peter Mutharika. The Committee is tasked with leading coordination and ensuring that activities across agriculture, food security, health, water, education and logistics as well as other targeted sectors are properly aligned.
Mbilizi emphasized the need for greater support to ensure the successful rollout of the plan.
She appealed to the African Union, regional bodies, development partners and the private sector to strengthen cooperation and investment in preparedness.
"We call for stronger support and cooperation from the African Union, regional bodies, development partners and the private sector. Investing in preparedness today will help protect lives and livelihoods tomorrow," she said.
The Extraordinary Session was held under the theme “Strengthening Africa’s Preparedness, Resilience and Climate Action,” following forecasts of a very strong El Niño later this year.
Experts cautioned that Southern Africa could face droughts, the Horn of Africa could experience flooding, and many parts of the continent may endure extreme heat. They urged countries to step up readiness by promoting droughttolerant crops, building food reserves, strengthening disease surveillance, and setting aside emergency funds, among others.
In their communiqué, ministers committed to enhancing Africa’s preparedness, early action, response and recovery, mobilizing political support and resources, and accelerating the implementation of Agenda 2063.
Malawi News Agency
MBC Digital
MIJ Online
Times 360 Malawi
Malawi Government
Zodiak Online
Nation Publications Limited
TWR Malawi
Luntha television
Malawi Red Cross Society - MRCS
Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development-Malawi
Mibawa TV
Capital FM Malawi
