Berenger, also the Prime Minister of Mauritius, made the call during the commemoration of Sadc Day at the Sadc Heads of State and Government Summit that started on Monday in the capital Port Louis.
He said every citizen in the region should not only have the basic necessities of life such as food, shelter and clothing, but should also enjoy access to good quality health services and sanitation.
"This can only happen if there is creation of wealth and jobs. One area in which we stand to reap good results if we tap into it more vigorously is agriculture. There is enormous potential in agriculture, which can assist us in furthering our development goals," said Berenger.
He said the Dar es Salaam Declaration on Agriculture and Food Security, which was adopted in May this year was a clear indication of the region's commitment towards improving food production and food security.
"Our region is prone to drought, floods and cyclones which have adversely affected food production in the region. They demonstrate more than ever before, the need for the region to be prepared to tackle such crises.
"We need to establish a functional regional food security information system. This would eventually, help in the promotion of trade while contributing to the enhancement of our capacity for timely delivery of food supplies to affected populations during emergencies and thus, minimising the disruptions on longer-term agricultural growth and development," he said.
The prime minister also added that the region was faced with an unprecedented HIV and Aids crisis that had placed it in a state of severe vulnerability, a situation exacerbated by high poverty levels.
He said they would continue to implement national and regional policies on HIV and Aids focusing on prevention, care and support and on mitigating the socio- economic impact of this pandemic.
Referring to Sadc Day he said it was commemorated in an environment where a culture of free and fair elections prevailed.
"We have observed the holding of successful elections in Malawi and South Africa early this year. Later this year Botswana, Mozambique and Namibia will be going to the polls. The United Republic of Tanzania and Zimbabwe are expected to hold elections next year. This is indeed, a clear expression of the region's commitment to democracy," he said. – BuaNews.
EMAIL THIS ARTICLE SAVE THIS ARTICLE FEEDBACK
To subscribe email subscriptions@creamermedia.co.za or click here
To advertise email advertising@creamermedia.co.za or click here
