About 68 million people in South Africa are affected by the drought caused by "El Niño" - a meteorological phenomenon that destroyed crops throughout the region, reported the Southern African Development Community (SADC), quoted by Reuters and BTA.
Leaders of the 16 SADC member countries met in Zimbabwe's capital Harare to discuss regional issues, including food security.
The drought that began early this year has affected crop and livestock production, causing food shortages and a range of other economic damages.
About 68 million people, or 17% of the region's population, are in need of assistance, said Elias Magosi, SAARC executive secretary. "In most parts of the region, the negative consequences of the phenomenon "El Niño" and the late onset of the rains characteristic of it", Magosi added.
Zimbabwe, Zambia and Malawi have already declared a food crisis.
In May, countries in the region launched an appeal for $5.5 billion to support the fight against the drought, but not enough donations have come in, said SAARC chairman Joao Lourenço, who is also Angola's president. "Unfortunately, the amount collected so far is less than what is needed and I would like to reiterate our call to our regional and international partners to increase their efforts... and help the people of our countries,", Lorenzo added.