Gaborone, Botswana – April 15, 2025
The newly appointed Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to South Africa, who is also accredited to Botswana, has formally presented her credentials to the Southern African Development Community (SADC).
Her Excellency Joanne Doornewaard handed over her letters of credence to SADC Executive Secretary, Mr. Elias Magosi, during a diplomatic ceremony held in Gaborone on Monday. The meeting marked the start of her official engagement with the regional bloc.
The Dutch Embassy in Pretoria also functions as a diplomatic mission to four SADC member states – Botswana, Namibia, Eswatini, and Lesotho – reflecting the Netherlands’ interest in fostering stronger regional cooperation.
During their meeting, Ambassador Doornewaard and Mr. Magosi exchanged views on key areas of mutual interest and agreed to pursue closer collaboration in sectors including peace and security, energy, and food systems.
Mr. Magosi congratulated Ambassador Doornewaard on her new role and expressed SADC’s readiness to work with the Netherlands to advance regional development and integration goals.
