Gaborone: Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, Water, and Land Reform, Inge Zaamwani, has been appointed chairperson of the Council of Ministers for the Southern African Science Service Centre for Climate Change and Adaptive Land Management (SASSCAL). She has been promoted from her previous role as vice chairperson and will lead the regional organisation for a two-year term, following her appointment in Gaborone, Botswana, during the fourth Council of Ministers meeting on Thursday.
According to Namibia Press Agency, Zaamwani succeeds Wynter Mmolotsi, Botswana's Minister of Environment and Tourism, and will provide strategic leadership, overseeing regional climate resilience initiatives and the transformation of the institution. She will guide the council in establishing policies and promoting international cooperation among member states, which include Angola, Botswana, Namibia, South Africa, and Zambia.
In her acceptance speech, Zaamwani highlighted that under her predecessor's leadership, the council prioritised enhanced regional cooperation and increased the institution's visibility in addressing climate change mitigation, adaptation, and land management challenges. She emphasised that Mmolotsi's leadership has established a solid foundation for the region to build upon moving forward.
Zaamwani acknowledged the significant responsibilities associated with her new role, particularly the mandate to lead SASSCAL through its next phase of growth and impact. 'Namibia is committed to ensuring continuity and momentum, and we shall diligently build upon the progress achieved under the outgoing chair and the able leadership of SASSCAL,' she said.
Zaamwani pledged to commit to spearheading SASSCAL's expansion, fostering dialogue among member states, and ensuring the effective implementation of Council decisions. She further committed to strengthening the organisation by promoting treaty ratification and financial compliance among member states. She also highlighted the importance of securing a sustained partnership with Germany, the primary funder, to enhance regional climate research and institutional sustainability.
Additionally, Zaamwani reiterated her intention to take on the responsibility with humility and dedication to serve the collective interests of the region, expressing her eagerness to collaborate closely with all member states, partners, and stakeholders to advance SASSCAL's mandate and deliver lasting benefits for both the people and the environment.