Lesotho has urged African Union (AU) Member States to commit to voluntary contributions for the African Risk Capacity (ARC) Agency. Hon. Limpho TAU, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office and Chair of the ARC Conference of Parties (COP), called on nations that have not yet ratified the ARC Treaty to do so, citing the growing climate crisis and the increasing frequency of disease outbreaks.
The appeal came after the 14th Conference of Parties, which focused on ARC’s financial sustainability and the importance of Treaty ratification. Lesotho’s Permanent Representative to the African Union Commission (AUC), Ambassador Ntšiuoa SEKETE, confirmed that the Kingdom of Lesotho had contributed USD 56,465.39 to support the ARC’s mission.
Ambassador Sekete also acknowledged the Kingdom’s leadership in advocating for increased membership and contributions to ensure the ARC’s long-term viability. Dr. Mothae MARUPING, Chairman of the African Risk Capacity Group Board, pointed out the agency’s crucial services, including early warning systems, risk pooling, and contingency planning in partnership with its financial arm, ARC Limited. He noted that ARC’s work in managing risks from natural disasters and disease outbreaks has never been more urgent.
The ARC, established in 2012, supports AU Member States in preparing for and responding to extreme weather events and other crises.
