GABORONE, August 10, 2023 – His Excellency Dr. Mokgweetsi Eric Keabetswe Masisi, the esteemed President of the Republic of Botswana, is set to embark on an official visit to partake in the 43rd Ordinary Southern African Development Community (SADC) Summit of Heads of State and Government. Scheduled to take place on August 17, 2023, in Luanda, Republic of Angola, this gathering of regional leaders holds vital implications for both the SADC and its member nations.
A pivotal moment of the Summit is the ceremonial transfer of the SADC Chairmanship, symbolizing the handover from His Excellency Félix Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo, President of the Democratic Republic of Congo, to His Excellency João Lourenço, President of the Republic of Angola. This transition signifies a dynamic shift in regional leadership, reflecting the intricate tapestry of collaboration and shared responsibilities.
The Organ on Politics, Defence, and Security Cooperation will witness a similar change in leadership. His Excellency Dr. Hage G. Geingob, President of the Republic of Namibia, will pass the mantle of the Chairmanship to His Excellency Hakainde Hichelema, President of the Republic of Zambia. This orchestrated succession underscores the commitment of SADC member states to fortify political stability and security across the region.
Central to the Summit’s agenda is a series of discussions pertaining to regional growth, integration, and stability. Paramount issues include a comprehensive overview of the regional economy, a meticulous report on peace and security dynamics within the region, and a pivotal conversation about the transformation of the SADC Parliamentary Forum into a full-fledged Parliament. Additionally, matters of finance and investment will be deliberated upon, alongside an update on the critical subject of regional food and nutrition security.
Equally vital is the assessment of progress in implementing the Regional Indicative Strategic Development Plan (RISDP) 2020-2030, a visionary blueprint driving the region’s developmental trajectory. Leaders will also engage in the signing of legal instruments that solidify cooperation and joint endeavors among SADC nations.
The bustling Summit will be preceded by a series of meetings that pave the way for productive discussions. From August 8 to August 16, 2023, the Council of Ministers, the Ministerial Committee of the Organ, and the Standing Committee of Senior Officials will engage in preparatory sessions, ensuring that the Summit’s agenda is thoroughly addressed.
President Masisi will be accompanied by a distinguished delegation, including the Honourable Dr. Lemogang Kwape, Minister of Foreign Affairs, the Honourable Peggy O. Serame, Minister of Finance, the Honourable Kagiso Mmusi, Minister of Defence, and the Honourable Mmusi Kgafela, Minister of Trade and Industry.
