Harare, Zimbabwe – Leaders of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) converged in the Zimbabwean capital on August 17th to address pressing regional challenges and chart a path towards economic prosperity.
The 44th Ordinary Summit of SADC Heads of State and Government elected Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa as the new Chairperson, succeeding Angola’s João Lourenço. Madagascar’s President Andry Rajoelina was named the incoming Chairperson.
A key focus of the summit was on driving innovation to propel the region’s economic growth and development. The leaders endorsed a theme emphasizing innovation as a catalyst for transforming manufacturing, mineral beneficiation, and agro-processing sectors.
Security concerns dominated discussions, particularly the situations in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Mozambique. SADC commended Angola’s efforts in facilitating the Luanda Process aimed at resolving the conflict in eastern DRC. The bloc also extended its support to Mozambique in addressing security challenges in the Cabo Delgado province and applauded the successful conclusion of the SADC Mission in Mozambique (SAMIM).
The leaders expressed deep concern over the ongoing crisis in Palestine, calling for an immediate ceasefire and the commencement of talks to achieve a lasting solution. They also condemned the attacks on civilians in Gaza, which have led to significant loss of life and destruction of property.
In a bid to foster regional integration, SADC urged member states to expedite the ratification of legal instruments that have already entered into force.
As the region grapples with the impact of climate change, the summit stressed the importance of monitoring weather patterns and developing contingency plans to mitigate the effects of disasters.
The leaders paid tribute to the late former presidents of Namibia, Malawi, and Tanzania, Hage Geingob, Saulos Chilima, and Ali Hassan Mwinyi, respectively, recognizing their contributions to the region.
The next SADC Summit is scheduled to take place in Madagascar.
